Sam Kerr’s turbulent year has taken another turn, with the Chelsea striker now cleared of racially aggravated harassment after a UK jury found her not guilty. However, the controversy surrounding the case may still have an impact on her public image, despite her reputation as one of Australia’s greatest footballers.

The trial drew widespread media attention, particularly after bodycam footage showed Kerr calling a police officer “stupid and white.” Her defense team argued that her reaction stemmed from a heightened sense of security as a woman in London, especially in the wake of the Sarah Everard case.

Kerr expressed frustration at feeling misunderstood by male officers during the incident, believing they unfairly blamed her for damage caused by her fiancée, Kristie Mewis.

Now that her legal battle is behind her, Kerr must shift focus to football, where she faces another major challenge—reclaiming her place in Chelsea’s squad. Having missed months of action due to an ACL injury, the Australian forward returns to increased competition following the arrival of Mayra Ramirez and other high-profile January signings.

With Chelsea pushing for silverware, Kerr will need to prove herself once again on the pitch as she works her way back to full fitness.