King Charles, Anthony Albanese, Cathy Freeman share pride in history-making Matildas

England may have broken the Matildas hearts – and those of their millions of supporters – but the Aussie spirit lives on.

Social media has been flooded with messages of support and pride for the history-making Tillies in the wake of their 3-1 semifinal loss.

Former Olympian Cathy Freeman took to X (formerly known as Twitter), writing: “So incredibly proud of our girls! You gave it everything and inspired an entire nation! Hold your head up high and here’s to the future!”

King Charles even showed his support via a post on the Royal Family’s Instagram.

“My wife and I join all our family in sending the mighty Lionesses our warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the World Cup, and in sharing our very best wishes for Sunday’s match,” the post read.

“While your victory may have cost the magnificent Matildas their chance for the greatest prize in the game, both teams have been an inspiration on and off the pitch - and, for that, both nations are united in pride, admiration and respect. Charles R.”

Australian Paralympian Dylan Alcott was full of praise for skipper Sam Kerr.

“SAM KERR STOP ITTTTT!!! Under this amount of scoreboard and country pressure that’s gotta be one of the best sporting moments I’ve ever seen!!!! #matildas #fifawwc”

A fan also noted the incredible actions of Kerr.

“Whatever comes of #AUSENG, Sam Kerr sprinting maniacally across the field, executing an otherworldly goal against England despite all their efforts to take her down, will stand as one of Australia’s greatest sporting moments. Flawless. Go Tillies!”

Some found humour in the situation, with one fan sharing a graphic of Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson waving his hands around on the sideline.

“On a positive note though, Tony Gustavsson has just accepted an offer to join The Wiggles,” they said.

Comedian and co-host of The Cheap Seats Tim McDonald was looking ahead.

“C’mon Spain,” he wrote on X with a humorous graphic stating Prime Minister Anthony Albanese would declare a Public Siesta if Spain win the playoff for third spot.

Our Prime Minister, who was one of the 75,000 fans to cram into Sydney’s Olympic Park to watch the game, commented on the Matildas fighting spirit, and made special mention to Cortnee Vine, Mackenzie Arnold and Sam Kerr.

“The Matildas are an absolute inspiration. “You’ve shown incredible skill, ferocity and flair, and a camaraderie that defines what it means to play team sport. “You’ve given us all moments and memories that will last a lifetime... Every single Matilda has brought us joy throughout this World Cup. “And I have no doubt that the next generation of Matildas were watching,” his Facebook post read.