In a heartbreaking turn of events, Matildas and Arsenal midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross has made an urgent dash from England back to Australia to be with her mother, who has received a devastating medical diagnosis.
An Emotional Journey Home
The 23-year-old football star was scheduled to play for her club, European champions Arsenal, in a Women’s Super League match against Manchester United this Saturday. Instead, she is now at her mother Jess's side after revealing the family's world has been shattered by news of a rare and incurable cancer.
Through an emotional post on social media, Cooney-Cross shared a photo from a hospital and explained the situation. "A few days ago, our world changed forever," she wrote. "My amazing mum, Jess, has been diagnosed with stage four cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). It’s a rare and aggressive cancer, and there is no cure."
Family First for the Football Star
Cooney-Cross, who has become a key figure for both the Matildas and Arsenal, did not hesitate to prioritise family. She described her mother as her hero, best friend, and the foundation of her life and career. "She is the reason I am where I am today," the athlete stated. "Her strength, love, and belief in me has carried me through everything."
The midfielder confirmed she is now back on Australian soil to support her mother, sisters, and wider family as they navigate the challenging path ahead. "We are all still in shock and learning how to sit with the weight of this news," she admitted.
Football Community Rallies With Support
The news has prompted an immediate and powerful wave of support from the global football community. Teammates from both Arsenal and the Australian national team flooded her post with messages of love and solidarity.
Arsenal and Matildas defender Steph Catley simply wrote, "Love you," while the official Matildas Instagram account pledged, "We’re with you every step of the way." National team captain Sam Kerr and fellow Arsenal player Caitlin Foord were among the many others offering their support.
In a practical show of solidarity, a GoFundMe page has been established to assist the family with medical and associated costs during this difficult time. The campaign has seen an incredible response, raising over $80,000 to help ease the burden.
The personal crisis comes at a time of professional high for Cooney-Cross. Having signed for Arsenal from Swedish club Hammarby in 2023, she was recently named the club's Player of the Month, recognising her impactful performances. Her absence will be felt on the pitch, but the football world has united behind her off it, emphasising that some things are far more important than the game.
