Matildas star Cortnee Vine steps away to focus on her mental health

Having become a national hero during the Matildas’ glorious World Cup run, Cortnee Vine has made a significant revelation about her life since that major moment.

Matildas World Cup hero Cortnee Vine has opened up on the “difficult” days she has endured since making a life-changing penalty to help topple France as she revealed she would be stepping away from the game to focus on her mental health

Hours after interim Matildas coach Tom Sermanni confirmed the 26-year-old had asked “not to be considered” for upcoming matches against Brazil and Chinese Taipei, Vine confirmed the “very new and sometimes overwhelming experiences” she had experienced since the World Cup had taken a toll.

Vine became a national hero during the FIFA Women’s World Cup when her penalty steered the Matildas into the semi-finals.

Cortnee Vine’s matchwinning World Cup moment. Picture: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

She became a perennial part of the Matildas and left Sydney FC in June after a four-year stint with the club to take up a deal in the US and play at the Paris Olympics.

But she was overlooked for subsequent Matildas campaigns and after questions were asked about her absence, Vine confirmed, through a statement, that she was taking time off.

“I’m sure many people can appreciate that my life has changed dramatically over the past two years,” Vine said in the statement.

“Due to these very new and sometimes overwhelming experiences, I’ve discovered that identifying, managing and prioritising my mental health has become something I have needed to work very hard on.

Cortnee Vine's Instagram message after mental health revelations.

“Like many who face mental health challenges, I have my good days and my difficult ones, but every day is a lesson in learning to find the right balance.

“For now, I need to focus on taking care of myself, which is why I’m taking some time off.

“I truly appreciate everyone’s support and concern and I’m confident I’ll return stronger than ever.”

As he announced a 36-player squad for upcoming games, Sermanni said Vine was in communication with him but was not available for selection.

“Cortnee has chosen, at this stage, not to be considered to be selected,” Sermanni said.

“We’ve had a chat before the last window and had a chat within the last week. She’s good but just not available for these upcoming games.”

There is no timeline on Vine’s return to football.

Originally published as Matildas star Cortnee Vine steps away to focus on her mental health