Matildas star Mary Fowler could miss next year’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup after suffering a serious knee injury

Mary Fowler has vowed to ‘stay positive’ following confirmation that the Matildas star has suffered a ruptured ACL injury.

The Matildas’ worst fears have been realised, with star playmaker Mary Fowler in danger of missing next year’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee.

Fowler suffered the injury playing for her English club side Manchester City in a weekend FA Women’s Cup semi-final against Manchester United.

She is now staring at the possibility of up to a year on the sidelines, a time period that would rule her out of the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup, which starts on March 1 and is being hosted by Australia.

However, 22-year-old Fowler said she was “ready to take on” her recovery.

We can confirm Mary Fowler has suffered a rupture to her anterior cruciate ligament.

Everyone at City wishes her all the best on a full and speedy recovery.

🔗 https://t.co/8toI580uTapic.twitter.com/NGNZ0jcCuS

— Manchester City Women (@ManCityWomen) April 16, 2025

“I’m really disappointed to be facing some time out of the game,” Fowler said.

“It’s never easy when something like this happens especially when you’ve been working so hard and feeling good. The road ahead will be challenging, but I’m ready to take it on.

“There’s still so much I want to achieve, and I’ll be using this time to grow in every way I can. I’m committed to doing the work, staying positive and coming back better than ever.”

Matildas interim coach Tom Sermanni was confident Fowler would “meet this challenge with the same courage she brings to the pitch”.

“This is tough news for Mary and for all of us who know the dedication and passion she brings to her craft,” Sermanni said.

“She’s an exceptional talent and a much-loved member of our team, Everyone in the Matildas and Football Australia family – players, coaches, and support staff – will be right behind Mary as she takes the first steps toward her comeback.”

Fowler will start a rehabilitation program under the care of Manchester City’s medical team.

Her injury comes as star Matildas striker Sam Kerr remains sidelined with her own ruptured ACL injury she suffered 15 months ago.

Originally published as Matildas star Mary Fowler could miss next year’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup after suffering a serious knee injury