by Staff Writer
Sunday, 31st May 2026
West Ham United defender Tuva Hansen has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during the World Sevens Football tournament in London, the Club has confirmed.
The Norway international sustained the injury during the Hammers’ final Group 2 match against Aston Villa at the Gtech Community Stadium on Friday evening. Hansen was forced off after going down during the closing stages of the contest, with medical staff quickly attending to the defender.
Scans have since confirmed damage to Hansen’s left knee, with the 28-year-old set to meet with a specialist to determine the next steps in her recovery programme.
The injury brought a heartbreaking end to what had been an encouraging tournament for Hansen, who had once again demonstrated her quality and experience throughout the World Sevens competition.
Having joined West Ham earlier this year, Hansen quickly established herself as an important figure within Rita Guarino’s squad. The versatile defender featured prominently across the tournament and even found the net in the Hammers’ dramatic 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa, briefly sparking hopes of a comeback before later suffering the injury.
A club statement read: “West Ham United can confirm that Tuva Hansen sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury during Friday’s World Sevens Football game against Aston Villa.
“A scan has confirmed the injury to her left knee and the Norway defender will see a specialist next week to determine the next steps in her recovery programme.
“Everyone at West Ham United would like to wish Tuva a full and timely recovery.”
The news has been met with an outpouring of support from across the women’s football community, with teammates, supporters and fellow professionals sending messages of encouragement to the defender as she begins her rehabilitation journey. Online reactions described the injury as “heartbreaking” after Hansen had only moments earlier scored for West Ham during the match.
Hansen arrived at West Ham with significant experience at both club and international level, having previously enjoyed success with Bayern Munich, including winning the inaugural World Sevens Football tournament in 2025.
While the road to recovery is expected to be lengthy, the defender will now focus on rehabilitation with the aim of returning stronger in Claret and Blue.
Everyone at West Ham United will be hoping to see Hansen back on the pitch as soon as possible.
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