FC Cincinnati defender Nick Hagglund was named the 2025 MLS Comeback Player of the Year on Wednesday.

Hagglund, 33, sustained a fractured fibula, torn ligaments and tendons, and significant cartilage damage in his ankle in a June 2024 match. It was his third season-ending injury in four seasons.

After surgery and more than 250 days of rehabilitation, Hagglund returned to the lineup on March 22 before suffering another setback on May 25 with two broken ribs and a collapsed lung in a collision against Atlanta United.

Hagglund was back on the pitch by Aug. 16, captaining the squad the rest of the way and contributing one goal and one assist in 17 MLS matches (16 starts). FCC was 10-4-3 in the games he played.

The award was voted on by MLS club technical staff, media and current players. F

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