"Thank you for changing the game": Outpouring of love for Matildas
Today Extra host Sylvia Jeffries summed up the thoughts of a grateful nation with her simple, heartfelt words on Wednesday night: "Thank you for changing the game":
TV ratings for last week's game, when Australia defeated France in a penalty shoot-out, was one of the biggest audience figures since Aussies stopped to watch Cathy Freeman win gold in the 400-metre final at the Sydney Olympics in 2000 ... and it looks like the athlete was among them.
"So incredibly proud of our girls!" Freeman shared after Wednesday's game. "You gave it everything and inspired an entire nation! Hold your head up high and here's to the future!"
So incredibly proud of our girls! You gave it everything and inspired an entire nation! Hold your head up high and here’s to the future! #matildas
— Cathy Freeman (@CathyFreeman) August 16, 2023
Rebel Wilson also chimed in live from the stadium, with her message of support:
"@matildas are sooooo amazing! 🐨 what a moment for women’s sport! (And always amazing when I get to chat to one of my idols @billiejeanking ) The biggest congratulations to Matildas for absolutely crushing this World Cup! Thank you to the Infantino family for including me and my family at the games 💛💚⚽️💛🇦🇺⚽️ such incredible memories!"
Images: Instagram