Sam Kerr’s return to Gotham FC drew the largest crowd for a women’s sporting event in New York City history, with 42,715 fans packing out Citi Field to watch the club beat Washington Spirit 1-0.
The huge support smashed Gotham’s previous attendance record of 15,560, set in 2024.
It remains short of the all-time NWSL attendance record of 63,000, but it marks a significant step forward for Gotham as they prepare to move into their new, larger stadium in 2028.
A Full-Circle Moment for Sam Kerr and Gotham FC
Kerr first played for Gotham – then known as Sky Blue FC – between 2015 and 2017. She set multiple club and NWSL records during that spell, including a then-league-record 17 goals in 2017.
She’s returned to the club on a contract through to 2030, having joined as a free agent following her departure from Chelsea.
Kerr came on as a second-half substitute in her homecoming match, with USA international Rose Lavelle scoring the winner in the first half.
NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman described the night as “a full circle moment” for both Gotham FC and Kerr, pointing to the record attendance as proof that investment in the women’s game is paying off.
Gotham FC is Building a Star-Studded Squad
Kerr’s arrival adds further star power to a Gotham FC side that’s already made major moves this summer, having also tempted midfield maestro Denise O’Sullivan away from Liverpool.
The pair now look set to team up in New York, giving Gotham FC one of the most stacked squads in the NWSL.
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