She’s widely considered to be one of the best female footballers of all time, but Sam Kerr admits that when she steps out on the field for the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time on July 20, she’ll be attempting to wrangle her nerves just like any other player on the pitch.
Here, in an exclusive extract from her new book, the 29-year-old outlines her journey from playing Aussie Rules as a kid to captaining the country’s beloved Matildas. She also opens up about her excitement and why we’ll “have to wait and see” whether she’ll do her famous back flip during the tournament.
Watch Below: Nike Matildas Soccer Kits, Revealed
If you could choose any team playing in the World Cup, who would you like to face in the final (and win)?
The USA! I would love to face the world champions!
How different is playing in a big game for Chelsea FC from playing in a World Cup for Australia?
It is very different but also very similar. A big game is a big game. And I love playing in big games! But playing for your country is extra special. Playing for Chelsea in big games is the closest I can get to replicating what it feels like to represent my country.
Are you feeling any more pressure leading into this World Cup than previous ones, given we are co-hosts and the high expectations around being one of the home teams?
Absolutely. There is added pressure because it’s a home World Cup, but it’s something the team and I are welcoming. We always have such great support at home and hopefully we can use it to our advantage.
Tell us how it feels to play in front of a home crowd?
Playing in front of friends and family is amazing. Playing in front of home fans that have watched you grow as a player is even better. It feels special being at home and playing in front of so many important people, and making so many young girls and boys so happy.
What advice would you give to the younger players in your team, who are playing in a World Cup for the first time?
I would probably say, ‘Just enjoy the moment and don’t put too much pressure on yourself.’ Staying in the moment and enjoying all the little things is so important because, before you know it, you’ll be like me at your fourth World Cup!
Will it be your famous flip, knee slide or something new when you score a goal?
I would like to do the back flip at a home game in the World Cup because it would be so special. But you will have to wait and see.
What is your most memorable goal from your career so far and why?
Probably the chest volley against Manchester United. Just because of what was on the line, the importance of the goal and the coverage it got. It was all very exciting.
Do you listen to music before a game to help your mindset?
Yes, I love listening to music. I change it all the time, depending on what my favourite genre or song is at the moment. Currently, I’m listening to Burna Boy.
Do you get nervous before games?
I sometimes get nervous but nerves are good. It shows that you care. But too many nerves can become a problem. I always like to keep my mind busy and not think or play the game in my head too much beforehand. Being calm and keeping yourself focused on what you can control is very important.
What will you usually eat for breakfast on the morning of an important match?
Toast, some sort of eggs, avocado and, of course, coffee!
Can you name three international World Cup players who you admire and why?
Firstly, Abby Wambach. She is an American retired big game soccer player who I really admire. Secondly, Yuki Nagasato. She is a Japanese soccer player and unbelievably gifted. And, of course, Caitlin Foord. We grew up playing together and she always performs at World Cups.
Do you watch Ted Lasso?
I haven’t watched it yet, but I do need to. I live in Richmond where it was filmed.
Apart from catching up with family and friends, is there something you hope to do while home for the World Cup?
There won’t be much time for anything else. Maybe have good coffee in the different cities we visit.
What is the best feedback you’ve had about your children’s book series, Kicking Goals?
I’ve really enjoyed all the young girls and boys getting to know my childhood. I love how they’ve realised I grew up just like them and, in fact, we have a lot of similarities.
This is an extract from Sam Kerr ‘My Journey To The World Cup’, out now through Simon & Schuster. Buy It Now.
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