Matildas star forward Mary Fowler has announced her plans to pull out of Australia’s upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Chinese Taipei, to focus on her mental health.
The Manchester City attacker will no longer play in the four scheduled matches due to kick off on Thursday, and will join fellow Matildas Katrina Gorry and Clare Wheeler on the sidelines.
In a statement released through Football Australia, Mary Fowler shared her plans to regroup and recover with family in Australia for the rest of the year.
“I’ve decided to take this time to prioritise recovery in order to refresh both mentally and physically, so that I can continue to put my best self forward for both club and country,” she said.
“Playing for the national team is something that I never take for granted.
“I have, however, through past experiences, come to realise that my mind and my body are also things that I should also never take for granted.
Fowler also acknowledged how a gruelling schedule has taken its toll on her overall health, stating that while exciting, it’s “at times also challenging.”
“I really appreciate everyone’s support and understanding, and I hope to see you all soon.”
Mary Fowler isn’t the only player to acknowledge when it’s time to take a break. The forward’s announcement comes just a week after fellow teammate Cortnee Vine revealed she would also be withdrawing from the camp for reasons related to mental health.
Between representing the country during the most exciting time in women’s football history, and continuing to score career goals abroad as Manchester City’s star attacker, Mary Fowler has had a huge few years. Especially in the world of elite sport where every part of your body – and mind – is constantly being put to the test.
In her marie claire cover shoot last year, Fowler reflected on the enduring legacy of the Matildas and the team’s impact on women’s sport in general.
“It’s hard to put into words the legacy we’ve left behind. I think it’s really special that we can get recognised as a team for the work we did and the journey we’ve had together.
“It’s amazing already to see the growth there’s been,” says Fowler. “I’ve come in at the perfect time when there’s so much opportunity. My hope for the future, for a lot of young girls starting out now, is for them to have as much opportunity as I’ve had, or even more. That’s what we’ve all worked towards and what so many female footballers before me have worked so hard for.”
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This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
