Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020.

Former Carlton Football Club president Luke Sayers returned to court on Monday as the legal dispute involving his estranged wife Cate Sayers continued in Victoria’s Supreme Court. The case focuses on an explicit image posted to X in January that quickly drew national attention and sparked an AFL investigation. Mr Sayers wants the matter moved to the Federal Court’s family division, arguing it would better handle the wider dispute and reduce complications around media coverage. The hearing matters because it could shape how future high-profile defamation matters tied to sport and public figures are handled in Australia.

Supreme Court Hears Arguments Over Trial Venue

Barrister Matthew Collins KC told the court the X post triggered major publicity for Mr Sayers and damaged his reputation. He argued the Family Court was the proper venue because it could handle the “entire controversy” under stricter reporting rules. Mr Sayers has denied posting the image himself and previously claimed he was showering when the post appeared online.

Cate Sayers, who attended court wearing an eggplant-coloured suit, continues to deny involvement. Her legal team argued the public attention began the moment the image surfaced online, not because of the legal proceedings that followed.

The courtroom atmosphere shifted several times during the hearing. Journalists packed the public gallery while legal teams debated whether parts of the case should remain closed to the public. At one stage, Justice Andrew Watson temporarily shut the court and halted the livestream while arguments continued behind closed doors.

AFL Investigation Still Part of Discussion

The AFL previously investigated the incident and cleared Luke Sayers of wrongdoing. According to court submissions, the explicit image remained online for roughly 15 minutes before deletion.

Cate Sayers’ lawyer Sue Chrysanthou SC said her client learned through media reports that blame was allegedly being directed toward her. She also rejected allegations connected to her mental health.

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Judge Reserves Decision

Justice Watson did not deliver an immediate ruling and said the parties would be notified later. The decision will determine whether the matter stays in Victoria’s Supreme Court or moves into the Federal Court system.