Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Sam Kerr has urged Australian football leaders to invest more in the A-League Women so leading Australia women's national team players can return home. The 32-year-old made the comments in New York after beginning her second spell with Gotham FC in the National Women's Soccer League.
Sam Kerr joined the reigning National Women's Soccer League champions after six and a half successful years with Chelsea in the Women's Super League. She has already influenced two Gotham FC victories from the bench, including a 3-2 comeback after her side trailed by two goals.
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Sam Kerr Wants Stronger Australian League
Sam Kerr said the A-League Women must become a better-paid, fully professional competition before many leading Australian players consider returning.
"If it paid enough and it was a top league, a lot of us Matildas would go back, but to better ourselves for the national team, we have to go overseas."
The Australia captain recalled when leading players from Australia, England and the United States regularly competed in the W-League, helping younger players train against established internationals.
"But I think the A-League probably needs a little bit more investment, a little bit more time."
Gotham FC Return Draws Strong Support
Sam Kerr made her Gotham FC debut before more than 42,000 spectators at Citi Field, setting a New York City record for a women's sporting event. She previously represented the club when it competed as Sky Blue FC.
Gotham FC teammate Midge Purce compared Sam Kerr's introduction against the Washington Spirit to bringing on a superhero.
"Like you thought this was everything and no, we're bringing on the Hulk."
Sam Kerr is now building towards the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. Official A-League Women news is available through the A-Leagues website.