The Wellington Phoenix have signed Matildas midfielder Tameka Yallop for the upcoming season and potentially behind.
Yallop, who has scored the second most goals in A-League history and who led the Brisbane Roar to their two championship titles, is the fifth competition All Star to be named in the squad.
Yallop, 35, is the ninth most capped Matilda in history, having played 136 senior internationals and represented Australia at four World Cups and three Olympic Games since making her debut in 2007.
She is in camp with the A-League All Stars squad in Sydney alongside new Nix teammates Grace Jale, Brooke Nunn, Makala Woods and Pia Vlok. The All Stars are preparing for tomorrow night’s match against Women’s Super League giants Chelsea FC.
Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman said: “We’re bringing someone into the group with an immense amount of experience.
“Not only has Tameka played in high pressure moments for the Matildas over the past 20 years, but she’s also been part of the A-League women’s competition since it started and has experience in some of the world’s top leagues.
“For a decorated Australian international like Tameka to make the move to the Wellington Phoenix speaks volumes about where this club is now at.
“She’ll really add to the team. Tameka can play multiple positions, she’s dynamic, has a lot of energy, is technically very gifted and she scores goals, which was one of the key reasons for signing her."
Yallop said family had lured her to New Zealand.
“My wife is a Kiwi so I have pretty strong ties to New Zealand,” she said. “And I spend a little bit of time over here.
“We have two little ones and my eldest daughter has got a Tillies jersey and a Ferns jersey, and she tells everyone that she is Kiwi-Aussie or Aussie-Kiwi.
“It’s come to the point where we wanted to represent the New Zealand side of the family.”
Yallop was quickly sold on the Phoenix after visiting the club last month.
“I’m chasing that trophy and so is Wellington, so we’re aligned."
The Phoenix lost last season's grand final to Melbourne City.
Yallop is the 18th women’s player contracted to the Wellington Phoenix for the 2026-27 A-League, with the season to start on October 16.
She will join the Phoenix for the start of pre-season training next month.
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