Sport is frequently described as Australia's national religion. The nation punches well above its weight in international competitions, particularly in swimming, cycling, and Olympic events.
### Major Professional Codes - **Australian Rules Football (AFL)**: The most attended sport, immensely popular in Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania. - **Cricket**: The traditional summer sport. The "Boxing Day Test" at the MCG is a cultural institution. - **Rugby League (NRL)**: The dominant winter sport in New South Wales and Queensland (highlighted by the fierce "State of Origin" series). - **Rugby Union & Soccer**: The Wallabies (Rugby Union) and the Socceroos/Matildas (Soccer) command massive followings, especially during international World Cups.
### Iconic Stadiums - **Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)**: Known affectionately as "The G," it can hold over 100,000 spectators. - **Accor Stadium (Sydney)**: Originally built for the 2000 Sydney Olympics.