Whilst the action on the pitch was non-stop at the Nike Toma National finals, we took a quick breather away from it all to chat to one of the best in the game: Sam Kerr. As the Aussie prepares for a fresh start away from the WSL, we get to know a little more about the person behind the player.
At Nike's TOMA Finals in New York, we caught up with Sam Kerr as she took in the next generation putting on a show. With another chapter now officially beginning at Gotham FC, it felt like the perfect moment to reflect on a career that's already helped reshape the women's game, while looking ahead to what's still to come.
"Once I lose that drive to win, then I'll hang up the boots."
Fresh off watching the action unfold at Nike's TOMA Finals in Bryant Park, Sam Kerr is in a reflective mood. Not because she's slowing down, far from it, but because there's finally space to appreciate the journey that's taken her from Australia to Europe, the United States and back again.
"I think a big part of my career has been changing environments," Kerr says. "I've changed clubs a lot, and that's been really important for my development. Looking back now at what I've achieved and what I've still got left to do... I could never have dreamed of this as a kid."
It's a career that's delivered league titles, individual honours and unforgettable moments, but for Kerr, the motivation hasn't shifted.
"I haven't won it all yet," she smiles. "I love winning. I love everything that comes with it. Once I lose that drive to want to win, then I'll hang up the boots. But there's definitely still more for me to win."
Watching the TOMA Finals unfold from the sidelines, she's just as impressed by what's coming next.
"The girls' games were intense," she laughs. "I was like, 'Wow.' There were some really good skills out there. I loved it."
As one of the defining figures of the modern game, Kerr has witnessed women's football transform around her. From Australia's home World Cup to the explosion of the sport globally, it's something she doesn't take for granted.
"The women's game has grown so much," she says. "The World Cup helped massively back home in Australia, but there's still so much to do. I feel really lucky that I've been part of this change, and really proud as well. When I look back one day, this period is something I'll remember for the rest of my life."
With another World Cup on the horizon, her focus naturally drifts towards the biggest stage.
"You're always looking ahead to a World Cup. That's the biggest tournament as a footballer. We came fourth last time, so hopefully we can go a few better."
Off the pitch, Kerr's approach is just as relaxed. Whether it's football or fashion, comfort comes first. "I just like doing whatever makes me feel comfortable and makes me feel good. I think that naturally carries over into both on and off the pitch."
And now, with her move to Gotham FC officially confirmed, New York becomes home once again. It's a city she already knows well from an earlier spell in the States, and one she's always been drawn back to. "I've spent a lot of time here," Kerr says. "I used to live over in Jersey, and Kristie was in Jersey City too, so I know the area pretty well. I love it here."
Even before unpacking the moving boxes, she already has her first stop planned. "I'm going straight to Sugarfish," she laughs. "I'm excited for some good sushi."
A familiar city, a fresh challenge and, if Kerr has anything to say about it, plenty more silverware still to chase.
Watch this space for more...