West Coast’s Ella Roberts may miss 2027 AFLW season after ACL tear

Ella Roberts ACL Rupture Casts Doubt on 2027 AFLW Season

We are all saddened by the injury sustained by Ella, West Coast AFLW boss Michelle Cowan said after scans confirmed the midfielder ruptured her right anterior cruciate ligament during the team’s final game of the campaign.

West Coast could be without midfielder Ella Roberts for the entire 2027 AFLW season following scans that confirmed a torn ACL. The 21-year-old sustained the injury during the first quarter of Saturday’s loss to Hawthorn at Sullivan Logistics Stadium, planting her leg while attempting to change direction. She immediately went down in pain, clutching her right knee, and required assistance to leave the field.

Surgery Timeline and Recovery Hurdles For West Coast

Roberts will undergo knee reconstruction surgery this week. Standard rehabilitation for an ACL reconstruction typically spans 12 months, placing the 21-year-old in a race against time to feature at any point during the 2027 season. Cowan emphasized that the club’s immediate focus centres on arranging the procedure promptly and providing comprehensive medical support. Our priority is to arrange surgery as soon as possible and ensure she receives the very best care and we will wrap our arms around her throughout this journey, Cowan said. The club expressed full confidence in Roberts’ professionalism and work ethic as she prepares for a long rehabilitation block.

Resumé and Impact of the Eagles Star

Roberts leaves a massive void in the West Coast lineup. The versatile star has kicked 20 goals across 55 games since making her debut in 2022. She earned All-Australian selection twice and secured the Eagles’ best and fairest award in 2024 and 2025. Throughout the 2026 campaign, which saw West Coast finish 13th, Roberts averaged 21.7 disposals and five clearances per match.

Hawthorn Elimination Final Preparation Contrast

While West Coast confronts a devastating injury blow to its player, opponents Hawthorn march into the post-season. The Hawks secured eighth spot on the ladder with a 14.10 (94) to 6.3 (39) victory in that Saturday fixture. Hawthorn coach Daniel Webster praised his side’s execution after locking in a finals berth, preparing now for an away elimination final against Carlton, Sydney, or Gold Coast. Meanwhile, the Eagles turn their full attention toward medical rehabilitation and managing the lengthy absence of their player.