The Most Common Sports Associated with ACL Tears: A Breakdown by Age, Sex, and Sport

Posted on: February 15th, 2025 by Our Team

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most critical stabilizing structures of the knee. Unfortunately, ACL tears are among the most common and devastating injuries in sports, typically requiring surgical intervention and rehabilitation. Understanding which sports are most associated with ACL tears—and how these injuries typically occur—can help athletes, parents, and coaches take preventative measures.

Adolescents and Young Athletes

Young athletes, particularly those involved in cutting and pivoting sports, are at high risk of ACL injuries due to their developing neuromuscular control and increased participation in competitive sports.

• Sports: Soccer, Basketball, Football, Gymnastics
• Risk Factors: Growth spurts, inadequate neuromuscular control, and increased participation in high-intensity sports
• Common Mechanisms: Non-contact pivoting, sudden changes in direction, and landing awkwardly from a jump

Female Athletes

Research has shown that female athletes are two to eight times more likely to tear their ACL compared to their male counterparts. Studies attribute this to anatomical, hormonal, and neuromuscular differences.

• Sports: Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Lacrosse
• Risk Factors: Increased Q-angle (wider hips leading to knee valgus), hormonal influences affecting ligament laxity, and differences in muscle activation patterns
• Common Mechanisms: Sudden deceleration, improper landing mechanics, and lateral pivoting motions without direct contact

Male Athletes

Though males tend to have lower ACL tear rates in non-contact situations, they remain at significant risk due to high-impact sports.

• Sports: Football, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling
• Risk Factors: Contact injuries, high-impact collisions, and rapid changes in momentum
• Common Mechanisms: Direct blows to the knee, hyperextension injuries, and quick pivots while cutting

Adult and Professional Athletes

As competition levels increase, so does the demand on the knee joint, leading to higher risks of ACL injuries.

• Sports: Football, Skiing, Tennis, Rugby
• Risk Factors: Increased intensity of play, accumulated wear and tear, and previous knee injuries
• Common Mechanisms: Cutting, rapid deceleration, and excessive torque on the knee joint

The Most Common Mechanisms of ACL Injuries

ACL injuries typically occur through one of the following mechanisms:

1. Non-Contact Injuries (70% of ACL Tears)

• Sudden changes in direction or pivoting
• Landing improperly from a jump
• Rapid deceleration combined with a cutting motion
• Twisting the knee while the foot is planted

2. Contact Injuries (30% of ACL Tears)

• Direct blows to the knee from tackles or falls
• Hyperextension due to forced movement during collisions
• Twisting injuries caused by another player falling onto the leg

Research-Backed Prevention Strategies

Several studies emphasize the importance of neuromuscular training in ACL injury prevention. Research/Evidence based knee injury prevention programs have been shown to significantly reduce ACL injury rates. These include:

• Strengthening exercises for the hamstrings, glutes, and quadriceps
• Plyometric training to improve landing mechanics
• Proprioceptive drills to enhance knee stability

Expert ACL Surgery and Treatment with Dr. Ronak M. Patel

If you or a loved one has suffered an ACL injury, seeking specialized care is crucial for optimal recovery. Dr. Ronak M. Patel is a leading knee surgeon with extensive experience in ACL reconstruction and ACL repair, having performed thousands of successful ACL surgeries. His expertise in sports medicine and cutting-edge surgical techniques ensures that athletes of all levels receive the highest quality care. For a consultation, contact Dr. Ronak M. Patel today and take the first step toward a full recovery.