Australia's own 'Minister of Defence', Mackenzie Arnold, shares the inspiring story of the winding road that led to her becoming the Matildas top goalkeeper, including the magical World Cup run that captivated a nation, and what it takes in your heart to take on the world.
Matildas fever swept across the country during the 2023 World Cup campaign, filling stadiums beyond capacity, uniting communities and inspiring the next generation of world-class athletes. In one of the iconic 'where-were-you-when' moments in Australian sports history, the Matildas faced down the French in an epic penalty shootout that would propel them through to the semifinals for the first time ever. Standing on the collective brilliance of her teammates, it was Macca's courage, leadership, steel-eyed focus and heroics in front of goal that won the hearts of a nation. We'll never forget the outstretched arms, the roar of victory, green and gold flooding the pitch.
But heroes don't just fall from the sky. Storybook endings often belie a lifetime's work, and the making of Mackenzie Arnold began well before that electric night in August.
Macca's story is one of dizzying heights and hard-won lessons. Whether it's facing down her doubts and fears to find the courage to be her truest self on and off the pitch; using her temporary setbacks to inspire others; or shouldering the hopes of a nation to deliver moments that transcend sport, Mackenzie Arnold has packed a lot into her life so far.
Honest, funny, brave and inspired, Macca shares her story here for the first time- the family and first-believers who supported and challenged her from the beginning; the coaches and mentors who pushed her beyond her comfort zone and provided the blueprint of a champion; the rivals and teammates who transformed the Matildas into a global force to be reckoned with.
And for her next act? Heroics and storybook endings are best left unscripted, but if Mackenzie Arnold has taught us one thing it's this- Don't blink.
About the Author
Born on the Gold Coast, Mackenzie Arnold made her debut for the Matildas in 2012 at age 18. Over the following decade, Macca has risen to the top as number one goalkeeper both at an international level and throughout her Australian W-League career.In 2023, Macca's heroic performance in a record-breaking 7-6 penalty shootout against France to secure the Matildas a spot in the FIFA Women's World Cup semi-finals was watched by millions of Australians. In 2024, Macca will put on the gloves at the Paris Olympics, where the Matildas will go for gold.Nicknamed the Brick Wall and Australia's Minister of Defence, she is currently goalkeeper for Portland Thorns FC in the United States.
