Arsenal midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross will take the pitch at Emirates Stadium this Sunday against Crystal Palace for the first time since her mother’s death two months ago. The Australian international lost her mother, Jess, to cancer in July, describing the experience as emotionally challenging while remaining determined to honour her memory through her performance.
Cooney-Cross’s mother was diagnosed with stage four cholangiocarcinoma, a rare bile duct cancer, in January and passed away at age 45. The 24-year-old took compassionate leave from football to spend her mother’s final months at home in Melbourne, where she trained individually while caring for her family. She credits her mother’s sacrifices—including driving her to training four times weekly—with shaping her football career and remains motivated to make her proud on the pitch.
Returning to competitive football after six months away, Cooney-Cross has received substantial support from Arsenal’s staff and teammates. Head coach Renee Slegers and director of women’s football Claire Wheatley maintained regular contact, while teammates Alessia Russo and Taylor Hinds provided emotional support during her transition back. The midfielder expressed gratitude for this care, noting it helped her feel ready to resume her career.
As she prepares for Sunday’s match, Cooney-Cross carries messages from her mother before each game, drawing inspiration from their close bond. She views her return to football as an opportunity to bring joy to her grieving family while playing for the supporters who stood by her during this difficult period.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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