Laini Freier’s debut for the CommBank Matildas was an incredible experience, made even more meaningful by a heartfelt message from her twin sister, Sharn.
On Monday (AEDT), the A-Leagues star Laini Freier made her mark in Australian football, playing in the 2-1 defeat against the world number one ranked United States during the esteemed SheBelieves Cup.
Although Sharn Freier, her twin sister and teammate from Brisbane Roar, is out for the remainder of the season due to injury, Laini’s debut means the Freier sisters are now the first twins and the second set of sisters to play for the senior Matildas.
REPORT: A-Leagues twins make history, a teenage debut, and a legend scores for the Matildas at the SheBelieves Cup
Following the match in Arizona, Network 10 aired a touching letter from Sharn Freier, which brought Laini to tears, especially as she is only eleven league games and seven goals into her professional journey.
“Waini, you have no idea how proud I am of you not only for making your first Tillies camp but also for earning your debut and cap number 236,” Sharn Freier expressed in her letter.
“You’ve played less than 20 professional games and already made it to the national team, establishing your presence. You know why? Because you absolutely deserve it.
“You are shattering records and might not even grasp the significance of it. I’ve seen you overcome significant injuries (even if you took the ‘bare minimum’ approach, haha), but you still put in the effort to get back onto the pitch.
“Every single time you’re out there, whether it’s for training or a match, you push yourself hard and never give up. I admire that about you. I love that you can switch moods quickly, yet it never affects your determination. You’ve shown everyone exactly why you deserved a shot in the A-League, and now you’ve taken it even further.
“Playing alongside you is the reason I fell in love with this sport. It’s rare for anyone to say they’ve played on the same team as their best friend for such a long time and with the teams we’ve been part of. Every moment we create together on the field is special because it’s our shared experience.
“I hope that we will represent the national team together one day, but for now, I want you to know just how proud I am of you, and how much you truly deserve this. You played football for your country on your own merit, not just because we’re twins, but because you’re an incredible player. You are Laini Freier, and you’ve got yourself to this point.
“I can’t wait for you to show the world what you can do next because it’s genuinely impressive. I will always support you and be your biggest fan, I promise.
“You’ve earned this moment. I couldn’t be prouder. Congratulations, Waini, I love you so much!”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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