That viral 'bulls***' moment and how football saved Awer Mabil

Socceroos star Awer Mabil has defended Australia's multiculturalism after being asked about One Nation leader Pauline Hanson's calls for a monoculture in the country. Mabil, who arrived in Australia as a refugee at the age of 10, told reporters that celebrating diversity is what makes Australia great. He said, "It's important to not only tolerate other cultures in Australia, but celebrate them."

Mabil, who has represented Australia at two World Cups and was named Young Australian of the Year in 2023, is now set to establish roots in the country after signing a three-year deal with Melbourne City. He expressed excitement about playing in front of his family and friends, something he didn't have the chance to do before. Mabil also shared that his childhood in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in northwestern Kenya was an escape for him, and football played a crucial role in helping him forget his hunger.

His charity, Barefoot to Boots, was inspired by his return to the camp and aims to provide football boots and equipment to refugees worldwide.