Kirsty Fenton terminates Sydney FC contract to take football break

Sydney FC has agreed to terminate the contract of 23-year-old defender Kirsty Fenton, allowing her to take a break from professional football to pursue other opportunities. Fenton, a former Young Matildas player, had two years remaining on her contract.

The decision follows a challenging recovery period after Fenton ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in March 2024. Fenton stated that the grueling rehabilitation process impacted her motivation, noting, “After doing my ACL in 2024, I found the rehab took a lot out of me and I’ve since seen my level of motivation to play drop.” She expressed hope that the hiatus will allow her to rediscover her passion for the sport before attempting a future comeback.

Sydney FC Women’s Head Coach James Slaveski expressed the club's full support for Fenton, stating that the doors of the club remain open to her for training and facility access. Fenton’s tenure with the club included a Premiership and Championship double in the 2022/23 season and a second Championship in 2023/24.