Australia's soccer star, Sam Kerr, has been acquitted of racially aggravated harassment charges following a high-profile trial in Australia. The jury delivered a not guilty verdict after more than four hours of deliberation on the seventh day of the case. The incident involved a confrontation with Police Constable Stephen Lovell, where Kerr admitted to calling him "stupid and white" during a heated exchange. However, she denied that her remark constituted racially aggravated harassment.
Kerr, a prominent figure in women's soccer, plays as a striker for both the Australian national team and English club Chelsea. As the captain and all-time leading scorer for Australia, Kerr has netted 69 goals since her debut in 2009. Her tenure with Chelsea, beginning in 2019, has seen her score 99 goals in 128 appearances, contributing to the club's status as the defending English champion and a formidable contender for the Women’s Champions League title.
"I believed it was him using his power and privilege over me because he was accusing me of being something I'm not … I was trying to express that due to the power and privilege they (the police) had, they would never have to understand what we had just gone through, and the fear we were having for our lives." – Sam Kerr
The trial captured significant media attention in Australia, with each day closely scrutinized by domestic outlets. Kerr's comments during the altercation raised questions about her role as the captain of the Matildas, Australia's national women's team. Critics questioned her leadership, although Kerr identifies as a white Anglo-Indian, adding complexity to the allegations against her. Judge Peter Lodder noted that Kerr's actions contributed to the situation but respected the jury's decision.
"I take the view her own behavior contributed significantly to the bringing of this allegation. I don’t go behind the jury’s verdict but that has a significant bearing on the question of costs." – Judge Peter Lodder
In response to the verdict, Football Australia emphasized its commitment to maintaining high behavioral standards for its players. The organization expressed ongoing support for Kerr as she navigates her career, recovery from injury, and future engagements.
"Football Australia invests heavily in building the behavioral standards and expectations of all involved with our game, especially for all our national team players, where leadership comes with added responsibilities on and off the field," – Football Australia
Kerr expressed relief following the court's decision, eager to move past this challenging chapter. She acknowledged her poor choice of words during a distressing moment but maintained that there was no intent to cause harm.
"Following today’s not guilty verdict, I can finally put this challenging period behind me,” – Sam Kerr
"While I apologize for expressing myself poorly on what was a traumatic evening, I have always maintained that I did not intend to insult or harm anyone and I am thankful that the jury unanimously agreed.” – Sam Kerr
Looking ahead, Kerr is set to return to action for Australia in two international friendlies against South Korea in April. This will mark her comeback after an ACL injury sustained during a Chelsea training camp in Morocco earlier this year. During her recovery, she has received steadfast support from her fiancée, U.S. soccer player Kristie Mewis, who is currently with English team West Ham.
“Throughout this period, Football Australia has remained committed to supporting Sam and will continue to do so as she focuses on her footballing career, rehabilitation from injury and return to play.” – Football Australia
