Matthew Roberts (footballer)

Matthew Roberts (born 31 July 2003) is an Australian rules footballer who plays for the Sydney Swans in the Australian Football League (AFL).

Matthew Roberts
Personal information
Nickname(s)	Robbo
Date of birth	(2003-07-31) 31 July 2003 (age 22)
Place of birth	Langhorne Creek, South Australia
Draft	Round 2, Pick #34 2021 AFL National Draft
Debut	Round 11, 2022, Sydney vs. Richmond, at Sydney Cricket Ground
Height	184 cm (6 ft 0 in)
Weight	81 kg (179 lb)
Position(s)	Medium Defender
Club information
Current club	Sydney
Number	34
Playing career1
Years	Club	Games (Goals)
2022–	Sydney	42 (4)
1 Playing statistics correct to the end of round 14, 2025.
Career highlights
2024 AFL Rising Star nominee
Sources: AFL Tables, AustralianFootball.com

Early football

Growing up, Roberts honed his football skills on the fields of Langhorne Creek Football Club, where his passion for the game ignited. This grassroots experience laid the foundation for his journey in the sport. Transitioning to his school years, he showcased his talent proudly donning the colors of St Peter's College, Adelaide.^[1]

Roberts then joined the South Adelaide Football Club and also represented South Australia at consecutive Under 16 National Championships and then consecutive Under 18 Championships.^[2]

AFL career

After being drafted with the 34th selection in the 2021 AFL draft.^[3][4] A year after being drafted, Roberts made his debut for Sydney Swans in Round 11, 2022 following a successful spell in the VFL.^[5]

In the 2023 AFL season, Roberts would go on to play 6 games adjusting to the heightened competition and establishing his place in a roster full of talent.

Roberts played the first nine games of the 2024 season, and has been a breakout player which has seen his disposals soar at an average of 18.6 per game. He was nominated for the 2024 AFL Rising Star in the opening round of the season.^[6]