Matildas star Kerr gets bounce back hug partner Mewis

 

Sam Kerr made a triumphant return to the pitch for Australia’s World Cup victory over Denmark and was rewarded with a big hug from his girlfriend, full-time footballer Kristie Mewis.

Kerr, 29, has been battling a calf problem to play for Tony Gustavsson’s side in the tournament, having skipped the first three games to recover from the injury sustained on the eve of the opening game against Ireland.

The Matildas captain has been eager to play a part for the co-hosts, who are one of the strongest teams left in the competition following the departures of the US, Brazil and Germany.

And on Monday, Gustavsson got Stadium Australia excited after fielding Kerr for the last 10 minutes of Matildas’ 2-0 win.

Kerr put in a mixed performance, sending the ball out of play as he tried to pass to a teammate, testing the goalkeeper with a rough effort before falling awkwardly to the grass after jockeying for a high ball.

Sam Kerr gets a hug from his girlfriend Kristie Mewis after the Matildas win

But it was all smiles at full time and Kerr was congratulated by his soccer girlfriend Mewis, who plays for the USA women’s team, who was watching from the stands.The soccer power couple shared a big hug in heartwarming

Sam and Kristie are known to have started dating almost three years ago, when photos surfaced of them getting closer after a match between Australia and the United States at the Tokyo Olympics.

READ ALSO Debutants and lone rangers Morocco set for France battle

One of the most powerful couples in women’s sports knows how to keep the spark alive when it comes to a long-distance relationship, and she loves to share that spark with fans, friends, and other soccer stars.

We are not private people. I like to share my story. I like to share who I am outside of football. Soccer is 5 per cent of my life,” Kerr told British publication Gaffer earlier this year.

“We set little milestones and make time during the week where we watch the same show and FaceTime or have dinner together or something. But it’s difficult.

“I think what keeps us going is that we can see an end point. We both just want each other to do well in our careers. I don’t think you can be in a long distance relationship with someone who doesn’t understand the sport.