TRANSCRIPT
Australian sporting icon and global football superstar Sam Kerr is front and centre of a shocking allegation.
The striker has appeared in court accused of using threatening or abusive words towards a police officer in the United Kingdom.
The Metropolitan Police say the charge relates to an incident involving a police officer who was responding to a complaint involving a taxi fare on January 30th 2023 in Twickenham.
Football Australia Chief Executive James Johnson says he was completely unaware of the charges.
"I woke up this morning like everyone else did to the news and that's when Football Australia found out about this unsettling event. We're trying to get to the bottom of it at the moment. We have some questions ourselves we've gotta find out what happened. But there's a process underway in the United Kingdom and that process needs to run its course."
Matildas Head Coach Tony Gustavsson has also revealed it's the first he's hearing of the incident.
It's led to questions being raised around why the alleged incident wasn't disclosed.
Tracey Holmes is a Professional Fellow in Sport at the University of Canberra.
"That raises a whole heap of other questions because obviously Sam Kerr knew this was happening and something was going to happen and why had she not alerted Football Australia, given she is employed as the captain of Australia and one of its favourite teams."
As Matildas captain and Chelsea striker, Kerr is one of the game's biggest names in Australia and around the globe.
And given her popularity on and off the field, the alleged incident has taken many by surprise.
Mr Gustavsson says it's something they will continue to investigate.
"I can't comment on the offence because its a legal matter at this point. The only thing I can comment on is my experience and interaction with Sam as a person as a footballer and I only have positive experiences from that."
Tracey Holmes says Football Australia has clear guidelines which are expected to be upheld by all players.
"She's the captain of a team that has fought for a very long time against discrimination of any type. She's been involved in anti-discrimination programs. We know football is the world game, is very conscious of standing in front of signs that say no discrimination of any type, zero tolerance to racism, and Football Australia has very similar policies."
Recent press conferences in Sydney and Adelaide were meant to generate excitement for the Matildas' last games before the Paris Olympics.
Instead, Sam Kerr’s court appearance has been an unwelcome distraction.
But initial reaction aside, both Football Australia and Kerr's coach are saying little about the matter, except to offer some words of support.
James Johnson says they're making sure she's okay.
"I haven't spoken to Sam other than a text message just to check in on her wellbeing because she in an employee of ours and also a player."
SBS has contacted Kerr's club Chelsea for comment, and she is set to face a four-day trial in February 2025.
If convicted, the charge carries a maximum penalty of 6 months' jail or a large fine.
