Orlando Pride midfielder Luana has been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the NWSL club has announced.
The Brazil international has been placed on the Season Ending Injury list, and will immediately begin chemotherapy treatment.
“As a professional athlete I have faced many challenges, on and off the field. I have always fought with courage and determination, and this time will be no different,” Luana said in a club statement.
“I really appreciate the support of my family and friends who have strengthened me in this moment. I also want to thank Brazil’s national team and Orlando Pride for their unconditional support. I kindly ask that my privacy be respected at this time.”
The 30-year-old joined Orlando prior to the 2024 season from Corinthians in Brazil. She has made three appearances for the Pride.
On the international level, Luana has been a regular for Brazil over the past several years, representing her country at the World Cup in 2019 and 2023.
“On behalf of our club, players, and the entire Orlando community, I want to extend our unwavering commitment to Luana as she begins her treatment. We are thankful to have some of the best medical resources available through our partners at Orlando Health, and we are prepared to do all we can to care for Luana in this moment,” said Orlando Pride VP of soccer operations and general manager Haley Carter.
“We fight our battles together, on and off the field, and the Orlando Pride athletes and staff will be side-by-side with Luana and unified in our support of her throughout this process.”
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