Iranian Soccer Player Changes Mind After Being Granted Asylum in Australia

U.S. President Donald Trump personally stepped in to push the Australian government to offer asylum.

Iran's players salute during the national anthem before the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026 football match between Iran and Philippines in Gold Coast on March 8, 2026. AFP via Getty Images

An Iranian women’s soccer player has reversed a decision to defect to Australia after initially being granted asylum by authorities.

She was one of two additional members of the national team—along with the earlier five—who accepted a humanitarian visa from the federal government.