Australian soccer icon Sam Kerr denies allegations of 'racially aggravated offense'

Sam Kerr, the talented striker for Chelsea FC and captain of the Australia women's team, has denied committing a "racially aggravated offense" against a police officer, as reported by British authorities on Monday.

The 30-year-old athlete was charged after an incident with an officer on January 30th of last year in Twickenham, which is a suburb located in southwest London.

The Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated that the officer was dealing with a complaint related to a taxi fare. The Met Police later confirmed that Kerr was charged with a racially aggravated offense under Section 4A of the Public Order Act 1986 via postal charge requisition on 21 January.

Kerr pleaded not guilty to the accusation at Kingston Upon Thames Crown Court on Monday, as confirmed by the Crown Prosecution Service to CNN.

According to the Met Police, she is set to attend Wimbledon Magistrates Court on 1 February 2025.

Football Australia has acknowledged the legal proceedings involving Sam Kerr in the United Kingdom and has expressed its commitment to offering support to the Matilda's captain.

The organization stated that due to the ongoing nature of the legal matter, they are unable to provide additional comments at this time. Their primary focus is on supporting all players, both on and off the field. Football Australia assured that they will closely monitor the situation and provide necessary support as required.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 16: Captains Millie Bright of England and Sam Kerr of Australia lead the team out prior to the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Semi Final match between Australia and England at Stadium Australia on August 16, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

On August 16, 2023, in Sydney, Australia, Captains Millie Bright of England and Sam Kerr of Australia led their teams out onto the field for the FIFA Women's World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Semi Final match. The exciting game took place at Stadium Australia, showcasing the talent and determination of both teams. The photo captures this memorable moment, highlighting the spirit of sportsmanship and competition in women's football.

Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

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CNN has reached out to Chelsea FC, who declined to comment.

The Perth-born soccer star signed for Chelsea in 2019 and played a crucial role in making the club the top women's team in the country. During her time in London, Chelsea won four consecutive Women's Super League (WSL) titles, three FA Cups, and two League Cups.

Since joining Chelsea, Kerr has scored an impressive 99 goals in 128 matches.

Last year, she made history by leading the Australia women's team to the soccer World Cup semifinal, the first team - men's or women's - to achieve this milestone.

In January, Kerr suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during training, as confirmed by Chelsea FC and the Matildas. This injury ruled her out for the second half of the English Women's Super League season and Australia's AFC Women's Olympic Qualifiers Round 3 series against Uzbekistan in February.

Editor's P/S:

The allegations against Sam Kerr are deeply concerning. As a prominent athlete and role model, her actions have the potential to