'I feel relieved': Matildas stalwart's 'next chapter'
Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams has announced that she will retire from international football following Australia’s campaign at Paris 2024.
The 35-year-old will finish her international career as the Matildas’ longest-serving player after 19 years with the national team.
Williams made her debut for the Matildas in 2005 as a 15-year-old and has since gone on to feature in five FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments, four Asian Cup campaigns and two Olympic Games across her 103 caps.
Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams dives for the ball during a training session.
The proud Noongar woman was the Matildas’ first-choice goalkeeper during the side’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup triumph in 2021.
Throughout her professional career, Williams has played in Australia, America and Europe — and is now back playing for Melbourne victory.
“I feel relieved. It’s pretty surreal right now but I’m receiving a lot of love and I’m excited to start the next chapter of my life,” Williams said speaking on Nine’s Today.
“It’s been amazing. It is still a bit of a pinch me moment. We love what we’ve done for the country but we’ve got more to do. It’s just all wrapped up nicely in the last 19 years of playing.
“The group has always been really welcoming and loving. When we see an opportunity we want to take it with both hands and change the dynamic.
“I’ve been there for everyone’s first cap. I’ve got to see their growth as players and more importantly as humans, and now they get to be there for my final cap and final touch on the field as a Matilda. I’m just really thankful that I get that opportunity.
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“Not many athletes get to go out on the way that they want to so I’m really grateful and excited to get to experience that moment.”
On Thursday, Williams was announced as a goalkeeper in the inaugural A-League Women All Stars team ahead of the side’s exhibition match against Arsenal Women on May 24 at Marvel Stadium.
She has cried every day since making her decision to leave the international squad but remains “at peace” and “excited” to see what the next chapter in her life will bring.
“I’ve cried every time I’ve thought about the last game with the girls. I’m trying not to [think about it] because I can’t be doing that for the next three weeks, just crying everyday,” she said.
“I’m really excited [for the last match] and it’s going to be an honour.
“I will be really emotional but hopeful there is a bottle of champagne waiting for me after.”
Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson praised the legacy that Williams will leave with the team, stating that her presence and career “represents what the Matildas are all about.”
“Lydia truly represents what the CommBank Matildas are all about. Incredible on-field talent mixed with authenticity, warmth, and a desire to leave the game better than she found it,” Gustavsson wrote.
“Lydia has done all of that and then some more. To be able to play the game at the highest level for close to two decades takes significant commitment, passion and focus to always get one day better.
“Her story is one that show what is possible with hard work and drive. Just as importantly, Lydia makes others around her better as she willingly and generously shares her experience and knowledge for the benefit of the team.”
“It has been a privilege to be a small part of Lydia’s football journey and I wish her all the best once the next chapter of her life begins. For the moment, we look forward to coming together to acknowledge a stellar career in the upcoming international matches,” remarked Gustavsson.
Football Australia is set to honour Williams at their upcoming international friendly against China PR at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Monday June 3.