Kerr makes a huge announcement after horror injury ruined her dream of Olympics

Matildas star Sam Kerr has unveiled her huge new career move after a shock knee injury ruled her out of playing for Australia at the Paris Games.

The superstar striker took to Instagram on Wednesday to announce that her very own soccer academy, Sam Kerr Football, is up and running, with sessions starting from February 5.

'Kicking off on football pitches across the country in 2024, Sam Kerr Football captures Kerr’s lived experience and her vision to inspire the next generation of kids to fall in love with the beautiful game,' the academy's website says.

'The program, designed for girls and boys aged 3 – 14, supports young players on their sporting journey by building their football skills, their confidence, resilience, expectations and their knowledge.'

Kerr - whose Olympics dream was ruined when she ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in her right knee at Chelsea's Morocco training camp in early January - previously shared the experiences that inspired her to start the academy.

'Growing up, there weren't opportunities for me to develop my game in a way that allowed me to be my best. It wasn't until I turned professional, that I learnt things like how to nourish my body to perform at my best or how to manage my mental well-being,' she said.

'My hope is that delivering a comprehensive program that is more than just skill development will give young players the best chance to live out their potential as a player.

'Being in the position I'm in today, I want to give back to the sport I love and to my young fans.

'It's an incredible privilege to be able to share what I have learned to better the sport, to build a legacy, and to inspire and connect with the next generation of Australian footballers.'

The 30-year-old shared a photo from her hospital bed after going under the knife to correct the injury on January 11.

Despite the fact the injury means she won't get to star for Australia in Paris, Kerr showed she's still in good spirits when she wrote 'on the road to recovery. Netflix recommendations below plz x' alongside the photo.

Any speculation that the shocking setback would affect her future with Chelsea in the Women's Super League was put to rest last Friday when Kerr reportedly agreed in principle to a contract extension with the club.

Her previous deal was due to expire at the end of the 2023-24 season.