Football News Update: Jenni Hermoso Speaks Out Amidst Controversy After World Cup Final
In a recent interview with GQSpain, Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso has opened up about the toll the controversy surrounding the now-banned former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales has taken on her.
Hermoso, who plays for CF Pachuca in Mexico, was at the center of a media storm after Rubiales kissed her on the lips following Spain’s 1-0 victory against England in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final. Hermoso stated that the kiss was not consensual, leading to Rubiales being banned for three years by FIFA.
“These weeks have been very difficult,” Hermoso revealed. “Having to tell it over and over again was hurting me a lot. But I know I had to let it go somehow. I continue working on it with the help of my psychologist, who I have been with for many years.”
The 33-year-old, who has won seven league titles and one UEFA Women’s Champions League crown, was left out of Spain’s squad in September, with new coach Montse Tomé saying she wanted to protect Hermoso. However, Hermoso returned to the national team last month and scored a late winner in a 1-0 victory over Italy in the Women’s Nations League.
Hermoso acknowledged the toll the controversy has taken on her mental health, but she remains determined to continue enjoying the sport she loves.
“For me, mental health is as important as daily training, like the hours I have to sleep to be able to go out on the field. Thanks to her I feel strong and I’m not shattered or thinking about not wanting to play football anymore. I have not lost my enthusiasm.”
The former Barcelona and Atlético Madrid forward also revealed that she has received threats amid the ongoing debate, saying, “I’ve had to assume the consequences of an act that I did not provoke, that I had not chosen or premeditated. I have received threats, and that is something you never get used to.”
Despite the challenges, Hermoso hopes to use the platform this controversy has given her to drive positive change in the sport.
“Fortunately or unfortunately, there is this story, but I am going to learn to take advantage of it positively to fight for what I believe is good for society. The #SeAcabo movement must bring a new era.”
As the Women’s Euro 2024, UEFA Champions League, and FIFA World Cup loom on the horizon, Hermoso’s focus remains on her team’s performance in the race to the Olympic Games, her club duties in Mexico, and the upcoming matches with the Spanish national team.
🔗 Source