Paris Olympics 2024: Mary Fowler Prepared to Shine for Matildas After Acknowledging Past Hesitation to Embrace the Spotlight

Mary Fowler recognizes that now is her moment to rise to the occasion.

Equally crucial, the 21-year-old standout is confident in her ability to do so.

Having made a significant impact during her debut Olympics in Tokyo, Fowler has evolved into the central attacking force for the Matildas.

With Sam Kerr sidelined, the Paris Olympics represents a pivotal moment for Mary Fowler, who is set to take center stage as arguably the face of Australia’s most recognized team.

Reflecting on her debut Olympics, Fowler shared with AAP, “The first time was quite different because it was a childhood dream come true, and I was overwhelmed with emotion.”

“This time, my focus is more on the tournament and the football itself. I’m determined to go there to win and contribute to the team as much as possible.”

Fowler feels better equipped to make an impact compared to her previous role as a bench player. Coach Tony Gustavsson has emphasized his desire for Fowler to be involved, whether as a winger, attacking midfielder, or striker.

Fowler acknowledged, “I’ve grown a lot since then. Previously, I might have shied away from taking on such responsibility.”

“Now, I see it differently—if someone is giving me more responsibility, it means they believe in my abilities. I view it as a compliment.”

Having evolved from playing football on Far North Queensland beaches with her siblings to stints in Montpellier and Manchester, Fowler is well on her way to achieving her goal of becoming the best player in the world.

Fowler’s ascent has coincided with the Matildas gaining national attention.

Her confidence has grown from her experience at Manchester City, where she had to wait for her opportunity before breaking into a star-studded starting lineup and making a significant impact.

“It likely comes from my time at City, where I wanted to be more consistent and believed that I could be a game-changer,” she said. “Having that belief in myself and delivering steady performances has really helped.”

Fowler hopes that this determination will help Australia advance through the group stages against Germany, Zambia, and the US, and ultimately secure a medal in Paris. Reflecting on the “horrible feeling” of finishing fourth in Tokyo and last year’s World Cup, she admitted, “Honestly, being knocked out in the group stage feels better than finishing fourth. When you’re fourth, you’re so close but just fall short in one game.”

“This experience is still fresh in our minds and has fueled our desire to improve and achieve better results this time around.”