Who leads the pack in Australian sports?
From the Australian Football League to the international stage, which athletes shine the brightest?
Explore the most popular soccer players from Australia, and witness their impact on the world of sports.
Also, check out this article for a broader look at the most popular athletes from Australia.
Most popular soccer players from Australia:
- Tim Cahill
- Harry Kewell
- Mark Viduka
- Sam Kerr
- Mile Jedinak
- Aaron Mooy
- Joe Marston
- Craig Johnston
- Lisa De Vanna
- Mark Schwarzer
- Mathew Leckie
Table of Contents
#1 Tim Cahill
- 🎂 Born in: 1979
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Asian Cup 2015
Tim Cahill, arguably the most iconic Australian soccer player, has made his mark on both domestic and international stages. His incredible goal-scoring ability and memorable moments in FIFA World Cups have earned him immense respect.
His passion for the game has inspired many young Australians to pursue soccer as a career.
#2 Harry Kewell
- 🎂 Born in: 1978
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: UEFA Champions League Winner with Liverpool, 2005
Harry Kewell enjoyed a successful career, representing top European clubs like Liverpool and Leeds United. He is remembered for his technical skills, speed, and remarkable versatility.
Kewell made significant contributions to the Australian national team and is considered one of the best players in the nation’s history.
#3 Mark Viduka
- 🎂 Born in: 1975
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2000/2001 Premier League Top Scorer
Mark Viduka gained prominence for his incredible goal-scoring ability and impactful performances. As one of the best Australian forwards, Viduka played for top clubs like Leeds United, Middlesbrough, and Newcastle United during his career.
His leadership on and off the field was equally impressive, captaining the Australian national team at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
#4 Sam Kerr
- 🎂 Born in: 1993
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2017 Asia Footballer of the Year
Sam Kerr has established herself as one of the best female soccer players globally. She has achieved numerous accolades, including becoming the all-time top scorer in both the National Women’s Soccer League and the Australian W-League.
Kerr continues to break records and inspire the next generation of female soccer players in Australia and around the world.
#5 Mile Jedinak
- 🎂 Born in: 1984
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Captaining the Australian national team at 3 FIFA World Cups
Mile Jedinak, a defensive midfielder, has been an influential figure in Australian soccer. Known for his leadership and powerful presence on the field, Jedinak captained the Australian national team during several impressive campaigns, including the 2015 Asian Cup victory.
His club career included successful stints with Crystal Palace and Aston Villa.
#6 Aaron Mooy
- 🎂 Born in: 1990
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: PFA Team of the Year (2016–2017 English Championship)
Aaron Mooy has emerged as one of Australia’s most talented midfielders, showcasing his technical skills and vision in both domestic and international competitions. Mooy has played for clubs like Huddersfield Town, Manchester City, and Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League.
His performances have made him a key figure for the Australian national team.
#7 Joe Marston
- 🎂 Born in: 1926
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: First Australian to play in an FA Cup Final
Joe Marston, a trailblazer for Australians in soccer, played for English club Preston North End. As the first Australian to participate in an FA Cup Final, his career paved the way for future generations of Australian soccer players to pursue opportunities overseas.
Marston also represented the Australian national team and was later inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.
#8 Craig Johnston
- 🎂 Born in: 1960
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Winning 5 League Titles and a European Cup with Liverpool
Craig Johnston had a distinguished career with English club Liverpool FC, becoming one of the first Australians to leave a lasting mark on English football. He played an instrumental role in Liverpool’s success during the 1980s, winning numerous titles and contributing to the team’s attacking prowess.
Johnston’s passion for soccer extended beyond his playing career, as he also invented the popular Adidas Predator soccer boot.
#9 Lisa De Vanna
- 🎂 Born in: 1984
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Top goal-scorer for the Australian Women’s National Team
Lisa De Vanna has been a standout player in the Australian Women’s National Team, scoring crucial goals in major tournaments and cementing her legacy as one of the team’s greatest attacking threats. Her incredible speed, skill, and determination have become synonymous with Australian women’s soccer.
De Vanna’s extensive club career has seen her play for teams across the world, including in the United States, Europe, and Australia.
#10 Mark Schwarzer
- 🎂 Born in: 1972
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: Longest-serving Australian national team player
Mark Schwarzer, widely regarded as one of Australia’s best goalkeepers, has had an outstanding career in both domestic and international competitions. Schwarzer played in English football for clubs like Middlesbrough, Fulham, Chelsea, and Leicester City and held the record for most Premier League appearances by a non-British player until 2021.
His remarkable longevity in the sport saw him represent the Australian national team for nearly 20 years.
#11 Mathew Leckie
- 🎂 Born in: 1991
- 🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2015 Asian Cup winner with the Australian national team
Mathew Leckie, as a versatile forward, has made significant contributions to the Australian national team and various clubs worldwide. His performances have helped Australia achieve success on the international stage, including their triumphant 2015 Asian Cup campaign.
Leckie has represented clubs in Germany, including FC Ingolstadt and Hertha BSC, showcasing his skill and adaptability in European soccer.
FAQ
Who is the greatest soccer player in the history of Australia?
Many consider Harry Kewell the greatest soccer player in Australia’s history.
Who is the most famous female soccer player from Australia?
Sam Kerr is the most notable female soccer player from Australia.
Which Australian soccer player is the most recognized internationally?
Tim Cahill, known for his time in the English Premier League, is the most internationally known Australian soccer player.
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