Talismanic Australian striker Sam Kerr was officially ruled out of the Olympics on Tuesday, nearly five months after suffering a severe knee injury that ended her season with Chelsea.
The Matildas captain, one of the most well-known names in women's football, ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament in January, and her father announced months ago that she would be unable to compete in Paris.
However, there was only an official confirmation once national coach Tony Gustavsson announced a 23-player squad for upcoming friendlies against China in Adelaide and Sydney.
"Attacker Amy Sayer (ACL) and forward Sam Kerr (ACL) remain on the sidelines with long-term injuries," the squad announcement said.
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"Kerr and Sayer will continue their rehabilitation programs in their home club environments and subsequently will not be available for selection for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games."
Sam Kerr, a pivotal figure in women's football and Australia's most prolific striker was present to celebrate Chelsea's fifth consecutive FA Women's Super League title over the weekend. Her absence due to injury is a significant blow, given her impressive record of 69 goals in 128 appearances.
In March, she was charged with a "racially aggravated offence" in Britain after a disagreement with a police officer.
She has pleaded not guilty, and outgoing Chelsea manager Emma Hayes stated on Saturday that the club has given her "full support."
The 30-year-old is expected to stand trial in February 2025.
Australia's final home matches before the July-August Olympics will be against China on May 31 and June 3.
