Kendall E. Bradley, MD, assistant professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, served as faculty sponsor for Olympic legend Abby Wambach during Duke University’s 2026 Commencement weekend, playing a key role in welcoming the decorated athlete and global advocate to campus.
Wambach, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, was honored during the ceremony as one of the most accomplished athletes in the history of women’s soccer. Bradley accompanied Wambach throughout commencement activities, representing the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery in a prominent university-wide celebration.
As a sports medicine specialist focused on shoulder, knee, and pediatric sports injuries—and a Duke team physician— Bradley’s sponsorship reflects the natural intersection of elite athletic performance and orthopaedic expertise. Her involvement also underscores Duke Orthopaedics’ close ties to high-level athletics and its commitment to supporting excellence both on and off the field.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Wambach is widely recognized for her advocacy for equity and inclusion, particularly in advancing equal pay for women in sports. Her commencement presence highlighted themes of leadership, resilience, and collective impact—values that resonate strongly within the Duke Orthopaedics community.
Bradley serves as director of Medical Student Education for Orthopaedic Surgery and is actively involved in the Duke Sports Science Institute, further advancing the department’s educational and clinical mission.