The Australian Women's World Cup soccer team—widely known as the Matildas—came in fourth at the Women's World Cup and were celebrated in Brisbane on Sunday with a key to the city by the Lord Mayor.
But that's not all!
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced that a statue will be built in honor of the team's accomplishment and that a positive change to women's sports is on the horizon.
“We’re going to increase the legacy funding for women’s football including upgrades to major venues where football is played across Queensland."
“But wait there’s one more thing. As a lasting tribute to 2023 Matildas we will build a statue at Suncorp Stadium."
“There are plenty (of statues) there, celebrating our male sporting champions, it’s time we celebrated women as well...you deserve your place amongst the greatest.”
Sadly, though, many men on social media mocked the idea, claiming a fourth place finish doesn't warrant a statue.
Amongst the naysayers was TV host Piers Morgan who tweeted:
“A statute for coming 4th? Is this a joke?”
Sky News Australia host Laura Jays attempted to explain the significance of the Matildas' World Cup appearance.
"Let's talk."
“Long lunch and I’ll explain the Matildas effect."
“Half the country watched the match. This is a country that is dominated by men’s AFL and NRL.”
“It’s a big deal. And the start of something very big for women’s sport.”
Morgan wasn't having it...
But Jayes wasn't the only one who called out Morgan for his unnecessary criticism (and for missing the whole point of the celebration).
According to his replies to others' comments, Morgan clearly failed to receive the message.
His loss.
@kileywrestling/Bluesky
