Matildas captain Sam Kerr has voiced strong criticism regarding the current state of women's football in Australia, stating that the issues facing the domestic league "shouldn't be happening." Her comments come at a time when the future of two A-League Women clubs, Central Coast Mariners and Canberra United, remains uncertain.
Kerr, speaking after her unveiling by Gotham FC in the United States, expressed sadness over what she perceives as a lack of investment in the domestic competition, particularly in the wake of Australia's successful co-hosting of the 2023 Women's World Cup. The Australian Professional Leagues are reportedly still seeking buyers for the women's programs of these clubs, with the Mariners' men's team having been sold without its women's side.
"Off the back of the 2023 World Cup you would think that there would be major investment in the A-League, and the girls deserve it out there," Kerr said. "More and more players are having to leave the A-League."
She emphasized the importance of retaining top talent within Australia to strengthen both the domestic league and the national teams. "In Australia we want to retain our national team players, we want to retain as many top-level athletes that we can but without the investment, the players can't stay," Kerr added. She believes that increased investment in facilities and infrastructure would yield rewards on the pitch and ultimately benefit Australia's player pathway and national teams.
Kerr also called for changes in the leadership overseeing the women's game, suggesting that "something has to change." Her remarks coincide with a growing trend of Australian players seeking opportunities overseas in leagues offering higher salaries and better professional conditions, including competitions in the United States and Canada's Northern Super League. The current minimum salary in the A-League Women is $27,000, which Kerr suggested is insufficient to incentivize established players to return or remain in Australia during their prime careers.
Kerr recently signed a long-term contract with Gotham FC, marking a return to the National Women's Soccer League after six seasons with Chelsea. She indicated that the move to Gotham FC offers the stability she desires, allowing her to focus on training and playing at her best for both her club and the Matildas. Kerr expressed confidence in her current form, noting that she has recently scored some of her best goals and believes she can perform at her peak when supported by the right team and coaching. Her aim is for her club performances to translate directly to her contributions to the national team.