The Matildas have once again captivated the nation, as they faced Olympic silver medallists Brazil in Queensland this past week. These matches, held in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, marked the 15th and 16th consecutive home game sell-outs for the team, a testament to their enduring legacy and the fervent support of Australian fans.
A decade ago, a Matildas-Brazil clash in Australia drew a modest crowd of just over 2500. Fast-forward 10 years, and the same matchup is being played before crowds nearly 30 times larger. The Gold Coast game alone saw over 25,000 fans brave torrential rain, an extraordinary display of devotion that underscores the deep connection between the Matildas and their supporters.
On the pitch, the games were nothing short of thrilling. Despite losses in both matches, fans were treated to electric performances, including a beautifully worked goal and assist from Caitlin Foord. The atmosphere was charged, with passionate tackles, relentless energy, and vocal crowds cheering and booing at every opportunity they had. A combined 30 minutes of added time across the two matches highlighted the intensity, as the games were punctuated by injuries and contentious stoppages.
Yet, while injury discourse dominated the Matildas news this past week, the most meaningful conversations perhaps took place off the field. Last month, two prominent Matildas, Mary Fowler and Cortnee Vine, made the bold decision to withdraw from the squad, citing mental health reasons. Their actions reflect a watershed moment in professional sports, challenging the longstanding stigma around mental well-being.
Fowler’s withdrawal statement was particularly significant. The 21-year-old, who has featured in all but one match for Manchester City this season, with her reasons for withdrawing being “mental and physical fatigue” after a demanding schedule with both club and country.
“I’ve decided to take this time to prioritise recovery in order to refresh both mentally and physically, so that I can continue to put my best self forward for both club and country,” she said in a statement issued by Football Australia.
“Playing for the national team is something that I never take for granted. I have, however, through past experiences, come to realise that my mind and my body are also things that I should also never take for granted. I really appreciate everyone’s support and understanding, and I hope to see you all soon,” she added.
Fowler could have chosen to omit the word ‘mentally’ and simply attributed her absence to physical exhaustion—something more readily accepted by fans and critics alike. Players regularly withdraw from squads due to physical injuries and no one would have batted an eye. Instead, she courageously highlighted the dual toll of elite sport, setting a powerful example for athletes and fans alike. Her decision not only validates the importance of mental health but also encourages others to prioritise their well-being and embrace vulnerability.
Similarly, Cortnee Vine faced scrutiny following her withdrawal, given her previous absences from the national team. Yet, she chose transparency over silence, releasing a detailed statement through her management. Vine spoke candidly about the emotional toll of her sudden rise to fame and her need to step back and recover.
“I’m sure many people can appreciate that my life has dramatically changed over the past two years,” Vine said. “Due to these very new and sometimes overwhelming experiences, l’ve discovered that identifying, managing and prioritising my mental health has become something I have needed to work very hard on.
“Like many who face mental health challenges, I have my good days and my difficult ones, but every day is a lesson in learning to find the right balance.
“For now, I need to focus on taking care of myself, which is why I am taking some time off.”
In an era where athletes are often expected to push through adversity without complaint, her honesty is commendable.
This week also marked the end of an era with the retirement of Clare Polkinghorne, the Matildas’ most capped player. A true legend of Australian football, “Polks” leaves behind a legacy of unmatched dedication and resilience. As she put it so poignantly in her farewell statement: “I’ve given everything that I have for this jersey—mentally, physically, emotionally.” Her words encapsulate the sacrifice and passion it takes to represent one’s country at the highest level, and also help set the expectations for younger Matildas like Fowler and Vine.
The Matildas continue to break barriers, set records, and inspire—not just through their performances, but with their courage and leadership. Fortunately, fans have two more opportunities to witness this remarkable team in action before the year ends, as they now head to Victoria to face Chinese Taipei on December 4th and 7th. Just 13 months ago, the Matildas secured a 3-0 victory over this team during their Olympic qualification campaign. Here’s hoping Victoria delivers similar success, both on and off the pitch, and the Matildas set new benchmarks for goals, attendance, and inspiration.
Lets Go Tillies!