Matthew Burke is one of Australian rugby’s most celebrated backs, having played 11 remarkable seasons with the Wallabies, where he earned 81 Test caps and scored 878 points. Known for his versatility, Burke excelled in multiple positions, including fullback, wing, and outside centre, and played a pivotal role in Australia’s 1999 Rugby World Cup victory, where his unerring boot secured 25 points in the final against France. After his illustrious international career, Burke played for the Newcastle Falcons in the UK, where he was honoured as Player of the Year and served as team captain.
Burke's contributions to Australian rugby are highlighted by numerous records, including the most points in Tests in a calendar year, and against teams like New Zealand and South Africa. His legacy as a player is solidified by his status as the NSW Waratahs' highest all-time points scorer and his selection as the best Wallabies fullback in the "Team of the Decade" (1995-2005). Following his rugby career, Burke transitioned seamlessly into a successful media career, becoming the face of international rugby coverage for Network Ten and now serving as the evening sports anchor on TEN News.
Highly professional, articulate, and personable, Matthew Burke is a great role model for young sportsmen and an inspiring keynote speaker. He resides on Sydney’s Northern Beaches with his wife Kate and their four daughters, continuing to be a prominent figure in both sports and media in Australia.