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Cortnee Vine, the most recognizable star in A-League Women dealt a significant blow to the competition by leaving FC Sydney to take up a contract in the US Women’s National Soccer League.
Sydney confirmed on Friday that the 26 Matildas winger Vine played his final game for the club after leading the Sky Blues to a second straight grand final win earlier this year.
Center back Charlotte McLean will also follow Vine from Sydney to the US after 74 appearances for the Sky Blues, with the players’ future clubs yet to be announced.
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The loss of Vine, in particular, is a bitter blow for the ALW following its rise to national prominence through its heroics at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Vine was given a one-year marquee deal after her performance at the World Cup and it paid dividends for ALW.
Vine’s star power was the main reason for the surge in interest in the ALW, with its presence in the league proving to be a drawcard and leading to several clubs breaking attendance records.
“The past four years at Sydney FC have had a profound impact on me and I am extremely grateful to everyone at the club,” Vine said in a statement.
“FC Sydney gave me the platform to achieve my goals, enjoy a lot of success and move on to the next stage of my career.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunities I’ve had as a Sydney FC player and would one day like to return to Sky Blue.
“We have a fantastic squad and some incredibly talented young players so I’m confident the club is in good shape to defend our title.”
Vine kicked 30 goals in 65 games for Sydney, becoming a star of the competition under Ante Juric after spells at Brisbane, Newcastle and Western Sydney.
“It’s sad to see Charlotte and Courtney leave the club, but I’m extremely proud of them and wish them all the best in the US,” Jurich said.
“They are excellent players and, more importantly, great people. I will miss them.”
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