In a significant move for soccer enthusiasts and fans of the Australian women’s team, the long-awaited goalkeeper jersey Mackenzie Arnold wore during the Women’s World Cup is finally hitting the shelves. After a wait of over six months since the tournament, where Arnold showcased exceptional skills and contributed to the Matildas’ historic run to the semifinals, fans can now own a piece of that memorable journey. Starting this Tuesday, the purple Nike jersey symbolizing Arnold’s prowess will be available through the Football Australia online store, followed by availability at various retailers beginning Wednesday.
Mackenzie Arnold’s performance at the World Cup, especially her remarkable achievement of four clean sheets and her pivotal role in the quarterfinal victory against France, has been a source of inspiration. Her heroics included saving three penalties during the shootout, propelling Australia into the semifinals for the first time. Reflecting on the overwhelming support from fans, Arnold expressed her gratitude, saying, “The support we as goalkeepers have felt from our fans over the last year has been incredible. It means so much that we’ll head into another huge year for our team and our sport, knowing that our families, friends and fans will be backing us and wearing our jerseys with pride.”
The delayed availability of goalkeeper jerseys has stirred considerable discussion in women’s soccer. The controversy was sparked when Nike initially chose not to release the goalkeeper uniforms for general sale during the World Cup. This decision was criticized by England’s goalkeeper Mary Earps, who actively campaigned to include women’s goalkeeper jerseys in Nike’s retail lineup before the tournament commenced. Acknowledging the oversight, Nike later made amends by offering the goalkeeper jerseys of four teams, including England, the US, France, and the Netherlands.
In light of the release of the Australian goalkeeper jersey, Ashley Reade, Nike’s Pacific vice president and general manager, remarked, “With this release, our first-ever replica goalkeeper jersey for an Australian football team, we look forward to seeing Aussie fans continue to show their support for the entire Matildas’ squad in another huge year for sport.” Priced at 125 Australian dollars for adult sizes and 100 Australian dollars for youth sizes, the jersey represents a piece of sporting history and a symbol of the strides women’s soccer continues to make on and off the field.
As the Matildas gear up for their next challenge, an Olympic qualifying match against Uzbekistan in Melbourne, the release of Arnold’s jersey serves as a beacon of support and pride for the team. This event marks a significant moment in women’s soccer, celebrating the achievements of female athletes and ensuring that fans can visibly showcase their support. With the backing of their supporters, the Matildas look to continue their impressive form and secure a spot in this year’s Olympic Games in Paris.
