Australian soccer star Kyra Cooney-Cross has shared the heartbreaking news that her mother has died, posting an emotional tribute describing the loss as her “biggest fear.”
The Matildas midfielder, 24, announced the devastating news on social media, sharing that her mum passed on Friday, July 10.
“My biggest fear in life happened right in front of me, and never in my life did I think I’d be having to see you go so soon,” she wrote.
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“My biggest fear isn’t death. It’s seeing my mum so vulnerable. It’s losing my mum before I can give her the life she truly deserves.”
Cooney-Cross paid tribute to the woman she described as her biggest inspiration, saying her mother had spent her life putting her family first.
“I’ve watched her carry the weight of the world on her shoulders, fight battles she never let us see, and swallow her own pain so we could have peace,” she wrote.
“And despite everything life has thrown at her, she still showed up for us every single time with a smile.”
The footballer described her mother as “the most beautiful, patient, gentle, wise, loving, courageous, and strongest person I know”.
“You are so unintentionally funny. I’m going to miss you giving me lectures and seeing you walk through that front door, and all the little things that make you, you,” she wrote.
“But I’m so glad you’re not in pain anymore.”
Kyra Cooney-Cross has received an emotional show of support from Arsenal over her family plight. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS) Credit: AAP
The Arsenal star ended the tribute by imagining her mum at peace and reflecting on the lasting impact she had on her life.
“You’re my biggest inspiration and the person I aspire to be. Mum, my favourite part is knowing that I’m a little piece of you,” she wrote.
“Gosh, I miss you so much. I love you.”
She ended the tribute by imagining her mum at peace and reflecting on the lasting impact she had on her life. Credit: Instagram
The post was flooded with heart emojis and messages of support from the soccer community, including fellow Arsenal players Katie Reid, Taylor Hinds and Manchester United player Celin Bizet.
“Sending all the love and support to you and your family, Kyra ❤️,” The Arsenal women’s football club commented.
