Australian football star Sam Kerr’s hopes for participating in the Olympics were dashed on Tuesday, nearly five months after sustaining a severe knee injury while playing for Chelsea.
The captain of the Matildas, widely recognized as one of the top names in women’s football, suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in January. Despite her father’s earlier declaration that she wouldn’t recover in time for Paris, there was no official confirmation until national coach Tony Gustavsson announced the squad for upcoming friendlies against China.
The squad announcement confirmed that both Kerr and teammate Amy Sayer, who are recovering from ACL injuries, will continue their rehabilitation with their respective club setups. Consequently, they will not be available for selection for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Kerr, who recently celebrated Chelsea’s FA Women’s Super League title win, holds the record as Australia’s most prolific striker, boasting 69 goals in 128 appearances.
In addition to her injury setback, Kerr faces legal proceedings in Britain after being charged with a “racially aggravated offence” in March. Despite her plea of not guilty, the trial is scheduled for February 2025. Outgoing Chelsea manager Emma Hayes reiterated the club’s unwavering support for Kerr amidst the ongoing legal process.
Australia’s upcoming matches against China on May 31 and June 3 mark their final home fixtures before the Olympics scheduled for July-August.
