CommBank Matildas forward Mary Fowler is set for an extended period on the sidelines after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury while playing for club side Manchester City on Sunday, April 13.
Football Australia confirmed the devastating news on Wednesday evening; Fowler succumbed to the right knee injury during City’s FA Women’s Cup semi-final bout with Manchester United over the weekend, and will now commence rehabilitation under the care of City’s medical team after scans confirmed the extent of the knee injury.
“I’m really disappointed to be facing some time out of the game,” Fowler said in a statement released by Football Australia. “It’s never easy when something like this happens especially when you’ve been working so hard and feeling good. The road ahead will be challenging, but I’m ready to take it on.”
“There’s still so much I want to achieve, and I’ll be using this time to grow in every way I can. I’m committed to doing the work, staying positive and coming back better than ever.
“I want to say a big thank you to everyone who’s sent messages or checked in – it’s honestly meant so much. The support from my teammates, family, friends and fans has been a real lift and reminded me how lucky I am to be surrounded by such a strong network.”
The 22-year-old former Adelaide United rising star is one of the Matildas’ most integral creative players and will be a significant absence from interim head coach Tom Sermanni’s squad as preparations continue for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, set to be held in Australia next March.
“This is tough news for Mary and for all of us who know the dedication and passion she brings to her craft,” said Matildas interim head coach Sermanni.
“She’s an exceptional talent and a much-loved member of our team, and we know she’ll meet this challenge with the same courage she brings to the pitch.”
“Everyone in the Matildas and Football Australia family – players, coaches, and support staff – will be right behind Mary as she takes the first steps toward her comeback.”
