Australia's Sam Kerr, captain of the national team for the Women's Asian Cup, has returned to national hero status after a two-year absence from international football due to a calf strain. The injury, which has long affected Australia, led to questions about her fitness and a lack of national pride in the Matildas. Kerr's performance at the 2023 Women's World Cup on home soil sparked national anxiety, while Australia's co-hosts reached the semi-finals. Her performance has been a relief for teammates and Australia coach Joe Montemurro, who has put plenty of minutes into her legs throughout the tournament. Kerr, who was 16 when Australia won their sole 2010 Asian Cup title, has now scored four goals and extended her national record tally to 73.