Sam Kerr returns to Gotham FC in front of record crowd

Former Chelsea forward Sam Kerr began her second spell with Gotham FC in front of the largest crowd ever recorded for a women's sporting event in New York City. Over 42,000 fans attended the match at Citi Field, the usual home of MLB's New York Mets, with an official sell-out attendance of 42,715.

Kerr, who previously played for the club between 2015 and 2017 when they were known as Sky Blue FC, entered the match as a second-half substitute. The game resulted in a 1-0 victory for Gotham FC over Washington Spirit, with American midfielder Rose Lavelle netting the decisive goal in the first half.

This figure marks a significant increase from the club's previous attendance record of 15,560 set in 2024. NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman noted that the event was a proof point for the club's investment strategy and their commitment to building a lasting relationship with the Queens community.

Gotham FC recently announced plans to relocate from their New Jersey venue to Etihad Park in Queens, where they will share the ground with MLS side New York City FC. The move is intended to increase accessibility and expand the club's fanbase as they look to build on the momentum generated by this record-breaking turnout.