Mallory Swanson has been reinstated to the Chicago Stars' active roster following her maternity leave, making her available for selection in the upcoming match against the North Carolina Courage. Swanson, who gave birth to her first child in November, last played for the Stars in the 2024 NWSL season. A vital player for the U.S. national team, she scored four goals during the 2024 Olympic tournament, including the decisive goal in the gold-medal match against Brazil. The Stars have faced challenges in her absence, currently sitting at the bottom of the NWSL standings with just six points from nine matches and a league-worst goal difference of minus-14. Swanson signed a long-term contract with Chicago in January 2024, ensuring her presence at the club until the 2028 season. Since her arrival in 2021, she has netted 23 goals for the Stars. Swanson's journey with the USWNT began when she debuted at 17 in 2016, and she has since made a significant impact, scoring 38 goals in 103 appearances.