Mackenzie Arnold, a pivotal figure in one of Australian sport's most unforgettable moments, is optimistic about the future. The Matildas goalkeeper, who considers herself a late bloomer, was the star of Australia's penalty shootout win against France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals. Her recently released autobiography, titled 'My story so far', reflects her hope for more significant achievements. 'We initially considered 'My story', but it felt premature. In 2023, I feel like I'm just getting started,' she says, having joined Portland Thorns in the USA's NWSL from West Ham United less than two months ago. 'But the thought process was also that I'm starting anew, in a new country, with another World Cup and Asian Cup ahead. There's a lot more to come.'
The Matildas have risen to become Australia's most beloved sporting team due to their recent successes, but face an uncertain future following the departure of coach Tony Gustavsson and a lackluster performance at the Paris Olympics. Upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Taiwan on home soil are expected to draw large crowds, a scenario unthinkable just two years ago. However, maintaining this newfound popularity will be challenging.
Former coach Tom Sermanni has been reappointed on an interim basis to lead the team in upcoming European friendlies against Switzerland and Germany. The 70-year-old's tenure is temporary, as Football Australia continues its search for a permanent coach. Arnold emphasizes the importance of a coach who prioritizes the team's strengths and interests. 'Ultimately, we want a coach who understands our team's strengths and plays to them,' she says. 'Whoever is appointed permanently, we will support 100%.'
Gustavsson's departure came at the end of his contract, amid fan frustration over the team's performance. The Matildas failed to advance from the group stage in Paris, with their only victory being a chaotic 6-5 comeback against Zambia. Arnold defends Gustavsson's record, stating that the team largely ignored external criticism. 'Looking back, we were a very successful team under Tony,' she says. 'I'm grateful for our relationship, which started on a difficult note when I was dropped for the Tokyo Olympics. But I understand his decisions now and believe they contributed to my growth.'
Arnold's rise to the Matildas' No 1 spot ahead of Teagan Micah and Lydia Williams was pivotal in the 2023 Women's World Cup. Her performance in the dramatic shootout victory against France at Suncorp Stadium is detailed in 18 pages of her book. 'When I missed my penalty, I was devastated. But the team's support was immediate and reassuring,' she recalls. 'It was a pivotal moment that I relived while writing the book.'
Leaving West Ham was tough, but the Thorns' three-year contract in a league experiencing renewed investment was an opportunity she couldn't refuse. 'It's a chance to step out of my comfort zone,' she says. Settling into Portland is ongoing, with her schedule split between the US, Australia, and London, where her partner Kirsty Smith continues to play for West Ham. 'With international camps, you never know where you'll be, so we adapt and make time for each other when possible.'
Collaborating with journalist Emma Kemp on the book allowed Arnold to relive the World Cup's highs. 'You don't fully grasp the impact until you reflect back,' she says. 'Those moments will be hard to top, but I'm hopeful for more.'
