In this case-control study a media-based analysis of return to play (RTP) rates, playing quality, and career duration after ACL tear in the top 5 football leagues during 2010-2012 has been made.

Although the relative RTP rates after ACL tears are high, career duration and playing quality are significantly affected: when compared to controls, ACL-injured players showed differences in terms of career duration, playing performance, rate of completed passes, and minutes played were also significantly different.