SYDNEY, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Described as a "landmark moment" for women's soccer down under, Aussie star striker Sam Kerr was said on Thursday to join Perth Glory for the W-League 2018-19 season from U.S. club, the Chicago Red Stars.
Made possible by Football Federation Australia's (FFA) marquee fund, Kerr is the first woman ever to be signed under such a deal, normally reserved for male players such as Dwight Yorke, Alessandro Del Piero and Tim Cahill.
A fan favourite all around the world for her backflip celebrations and spectacular goal-scoring ability, the 25-year-old made her debut for the Australian national team when she was just 15.
Since then, she's gone on to win numerous awards including two international Player of the Year titles and one for best player in Asia.
"Sam Kerr is truly one of the best female footballers in the world right now and one of the most recognisable sports people in Australia and football worldwide," FFA chief executive David Gallop said in a statement.
"Sam's reach extends well beyond the football field, as illustrated by her being the current Young Australian of the Year."
"We truly hope that historic days like today will ensure we create an important legacy for professional female players in the future."
Kerr's return to her hometown of Perth comes in the build-up to the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2019, with the next eight months of preparation "critical" for success at the tournament.
"It is wonderful to have players like Kerr home in Australia in the lead up to the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup," FFA's Head of Women's Football Emma Highwood said.
"[It] gives fans a chance to see their heroes in person as they prepare for one of the biggest tournaments of their footballing careers."
Round one of the W-League is set to kick off in Australia on October 25.
