Aussie Soccer Star Sam Kerr Claps Back at Homophobic Haters

Australian soccer star Sam Kerr has found herself dealing with the burn of the spotlight lately, especially as the Women's World Cup is underway. This time it was responding to homophobic comments online.

Following a 3-2 win against Brazil on Friday, Kerr said in a post-game interview that haters could "suck on that one." Clearly, she was feeling boosted after the Australian team, (known as the Matillidas), came back from a 2-0 deficit at the half.

She added, "Social media gives people a platform to say whatever they want, so it was good to kind of send a message back home and send a message to the rest of the world."

Her comments seemed to be in response to critics of the Australian team's performance -- and her own playing -- after an earlier loss to Italy, according to news.com.au.

After making the remark, the out player received some blowback when former captain Cheryl Sainsbury said Kerr's words showed "immaturity," according to News.com.au; Heather Garriock, another former player, said being in Kerr's role demands being diplomatic.

But Kerr later said she specifically called out haters during the interview because of the homophobic comments she had been receiving on Twitter.

Soon after, Twitter Sports Australia replied to Kerr and said the tweet was reported.

Australia will face Jamaica next on Wednesday.