The Iranian women’s national football team player who had sought asylum in Australia has reversed her decision and expressed her intention to return to Iran.
Mohaddeseh Zolfi, a member of Iran’s women’s national football team, had initially applied for asylum in Australia under intense pressure from the Australian government and hostile media outlets.
She has now withdrawn her asylum request and announced her desire to return to Iran.
Tony Burke, Australia’s Home Affairs Minister, confirmed to international media that one of the two Iranian players offered asylum had changed her mind.
Burke stated, “One of the two members of the Iranian women’s football team who were offered asylum has reconsidered her decision. After consulting with her teammates, she contacted the Iranian embassy. In Australia, people are free to change their minds, and we respect that decision.”
International media reports identified the player as Mohaddeseh Zolfi.
The Iranian women’s football team had traveled to Australia to participate in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. During their stay, they faced a climate of intimidation and coercion orchestrated by the Australian government, with direct support from the United States.
Australian police repeatedly approached the players, urging them to seek asylum. The situation escalated to the point where US President Donald Trump declared that if Australia did not grant them residency, the United States would.
The threats and pressure exerted by Australian authorities and anti-revolutionary groups during a sporting tournament were described as unprecedented.
Despite the obstacles imposed by Australian officials, the Iranian national team delegation left Sydney for Kuala Lumpur. Upon arrival in Malaysia, they were warmly received by Iran’s ambassador to Malaysia before continuing their journey back to Iran.
In recent days, Iranian sports and judicial officials have reiterated that the female footballers remain under Iran’s protection. They emphasized that the country welcomes these athletes with open arms.