Ex-Olympian Wambach Begins Rehabilitating Broken Leg

Wellington, FL (AHN) -- Soccer star Abby Wambach's tale of tragedy began five days ago, when she broke her leg in a collision during an exhibition match with Brazil.

The collision cost her her chance to compete in the Beijing Olympics, and no small amount of tears have been shed over that.

The collision she suffered broke her tibia and fibula, and she underwent surgery on Thursday.

The 28-year-old Wambach was one of the players who lead the Americans to the gold metal in 2004.

Yet those who heard her speak in recent days have confirmed one fact unanimously: Wambach is neither broken nor depressed.

It's expected that Wambach will remain on crutches for 4-6 weeks. The estimated recovery time will be six to 10 months.

Lauren Cheney will be replacing Wambach in the roster; Wambach called her from her hospital bed to wish her the best.