What makes Kyra Cooney-Cross cry? The emotional journey of Matildas' rising star
With tears unexpectedly slipping down her face, Kyra Cooney-Cross reveals in interview with The Australian, the pressure, passion and vulnerability behind her meteoric rise to the top of women’s football.
- Kyra Cooney-Cross, 23, has established herself as a midfield force for the Matildas and Arsenal, but reveals an emotional vulnerability—she tearfully credits the sacrifices made by her mother, Jessica, for her career.
- Born in Queensland, Cooney-Cross moved frequently in her youth (Alice Springs, Ballarat, Torquay) with her single mother and three sisters, developing resilience through instability.
- In 2023 she joined Arsenal from Swedish side Hammarby IF for approximately AUD 270,000, and was part of the squad that won the 2025 UEFA Women’s Champions League (though she watched the final from the bench).
- Her early 2025 season has been challenging: limited game time under coach Renee Slegers forced her to be patient, but she remains committed to earning her place.
- With the Matildas, she sees the arrival of Joe Montemurro as coach as an opportunity. She believes her midfield role will be critical in a more fluid, attacking playing style and aims to help Australia win the 2025 Asian Cup at home.
Read the full interview here.
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