Sam Kerr’s Triumphant Return: Chelsea’s Star Striker Ready for 2025-26 Season Comeback

The Long Road to Recovery

Sam Kerr’s journey back to professional football has been a challenging one, beginning in January 2024 when she suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a warm weather training camp in Morocco. Despite the setback, the Australian striker showed her commitment to Chelsea by signing a two-year contract extension, keeping her at the club until 2026.

Recovery Progress and Return Timeline

While initial hopes were for an earlier return, manager Sonia Bompastor confirmed Kerr wouldn’t return until 2025. Though she was included in Chelsea’s Champions League squad in March 2025, she didn’t play any minutes. The forward is now training with the team during August 2025, preparing for the 2025-26 season opening.

Kerr’s Legacy and Achievements

Samantha May Kerr OAM, who plays as a striker for Chelsea and captains the Australia women’s national team, is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world and one of Australia’s greatest athletes. Her impressive career includes being Australia’s all-time leading international scorer with 69 goals, and she holds the distinction of being the only female soccer player to win the Golden Boot in three different leagues across three continents—the W-League, NWSL, and Women’s Super League.

Personal Life Updates

Off the pitch, Kerr’s personal life has seen significant developments. After confirming her relationship with USWNT star Kristie Mewis and their engagement in November 2023, the couple announced in November 2024 that they were expecting their first child in 2025, with Mewis carrying the child.

Future Prospects

Kerr remains the highest-paid player in the WSL, earning £447,359 annually following her contract extension in summer 2024, demonstrating Chelsea’s continued faith in their star striker. Her return to the pitch is highly anticipated by fans and teammates alike, as she looks to add to her impressive legacy in women’s football.