Matildas hopeful Jada Whyman has hit the pause button on her football career after a knee injury cruelled what loomed as a breakout season.
The 26-year-old goalkeeper was on the cusp of an international debut at the Asian Cup on home soil in March with veteran Mackenzie Arnold battling injury and Teagan Micah ruled out of the tournament with concussion.
Instead, Whyman was scratched from the squad just hours before the opening match following a freak fall on her knee in training.
She has not played a match since and the extent of her injury remains unknown.
Her Swedish club AIK Stockholm broke the radio silence with confirmation Whyman had requested and been granted a release from her contract.
“It is very sad to go our separate ways but there has been a very strong desire from Jada to terminate the contract early after the latest injury that will keep her away for a longer period,” AIK sports director Zinar Spindari said.
“AIK Fotboll has from day one assisted with all the resources we have at our disposal but ultimately Jada’s desire to terminate the contract, pause her career and remain in Australia has been something we have taken into account in this decision.
“With that said, we wish Jada the best of luck in the future.”
Whyman was a mainstay in Sydney FC’s trophy-winning sides from 2020-24 before joining AIK for her first stint overseas.
She quickly became the Stockholm club’s first-choice goalkeeper and leaves after making 28 appearances in all competitions.
“It is sad that my time at AIK has come to an end due to this injury,” Whyman said.
“I have really enjoyed my time living in Stockholm and representing AIK.
“Thank you to the fans for all your support and encouragement during my time at the club.
“AIK will always have a special place in my heart.
“Thank you again.”
Whyman is certain to be in demand for the A-League season later this year if she seeks a return to football.
The NSW product overcame a previous knee problem to put herself in the mix at the Asian Cup until suffering the fresh setback ahead of the tournament opener against the Philippines.
“She’s come back from a knee situation, and unfortunately, she made a save at training and fell on it,” Matildas coach Joe Montemurro said in March.
“It was just one of those freak occasions that happen. So I feel sorry for Jada. We’re with her. She probably would have got her first cap tonight from that perspective.”
