Matildas star Michelle Heyman gets engaged to girlfriend to cap off an impressive year for Australian football’s comeback queen

Matildas star Michelle Heyman has confirmed her engagement to her long-term partner Christine Aldridge.

It caps an impressive 2024 for the veteran striker, 36, who scored Australia’s winner against Zambia at the Paris Olympics.

Heyman was called up to Tony Gustavsson’s squad late on due to an ACL injury to Sam Kerr and took her chance in qualifying with both hands, scoring five goals in two games against Uzbekistan.

Taking over Instagram Heyman recently shared a photo of herself kissing Aldridge on the cheek while showing off her sparkling ring.

Heyman captioned the photo with six digits: ‘6/9/24.’

Matilda’s teammate Katrina Gorry was quick to send her best wishes, posting in response: “Love, love, love. Congratulations my loved ones.”

Midfielder Chloe Logarzo posted: “Congratulations darlings.”

This comes as Heyman was on the verge of signing for West Ham in the Women’s Super League this season, but was only offered a short-term deal with the Hammers.

“The deal was only until December and, in my case, if I signed that contract, the transfer window would not allow me to play in Australia,” he said. A Leagues.

‘So it was a big decision… if I signed the contract with West Ham, then I wouldn’t be able to play football until April, when the season ends.

“For me, playing is more important.”

The prolific forward, who has scored 110 goals domestically in her career, will return to play for her beloved Canberra United, with the women’s competition on local shores set to get underway on November 1.

“I’m excited to continue my football journey with Canberra United, a club that is incredibly close to my heart,” said Heyman, who also has 67 Matildas caps to her name.

‘I have made many memories playing for Canberra United and I look forward to making many more with my teammates and the fans.

“I feel incredibly good, physically and mentally, and I’m ready to get to work right away.”