Sam Kerr has never been just a football star—she’s a trailblazer. From her Matildas debut in 2009 to winning the Golden Boot in 2017, leading Chelsea in 2020, and lighting up the 2023 Women’s World Cup, her career has been filled with defining moments. Now, she’s celebrating another milestone: her own Nike collection, headlined by the Sam Kerr Player Edition Mercurial Superfly 10.
The boots, and the wider collection, are more than just sports gear. They’re a tribute to Kerr’s roots in Perth, her community, and her sporting inspirations. The design even includes nods to Perth’s sunsets, her motto “Forever Forward,” and a stripe that pays homage to Cathy Freeman’s iconic Sydney 2000 moment.
Reflecting on the launch, Kerr says it’s a surreal “full-circle” moment. “I never imagined I’d have my own Player Edition. It feels like recognition for all the years of hard work and commitment,” she says.
But for many fans, Kerr’s influence goes far beyond the pitch. She admits she never set out to be a role model for young queer athletes or women of colour, but she embraces the impact. “Just by being who I am, I hope people feel comfortable in themselves. I’ve had so many people say seeing me and Kristie [Mewis] together has helped their families become more accepting. That means a lot to me,” Kerr explains.
Her humility is clear when she talks about the Matildas’ World Cup run. She calls it one of the greatest Australian sporting moments, not just for her, but for every teammate who became a household name. “It’s not about one player. It’s about everyone finding someone they can look up to,” she says, adding that hearing stories of fans who found joy and belonging through football is the most rewarding part of her journey.
Kerr also acknowledges the inspiration she drew from legends before her—especially Cathy Freeman. She recalls watching Freeman’s Olympic triumph as a pivotal moment that shaped her vision of what women in sport could achieve. “That memory is so vivid for all of us. It changed how I saw my own future,” she says.
Now, with her own signature collection, Kerr’s legacy comes full circle. She’s not only wearing boots that reflect her story but also giving fans the chance to share in it. Her Nike Player Edition boots and apparel are now available online and in select stores, letting anyone carry a piece of her “Perth swagger” onto the pitch.
