Spain’s star player, Jenni Hermoso, has expressed her discomfort after being kissed on the lips by the Spanish FA president, Luis Rubiales.
This incident took place as Hermoso was making her way to the podium following Spain’s victory over England in the Women’s World Cup final, thanks to Olga Carmona’s winning goal.
After receiving her medal from FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Hermoso was hugged by Mr. Rubiales, who then lifted her off her feet. Following a brief conversation, Mr. Rubiales embraced Hermoso from behind and kissed her on the lips.
The incident quickly sparked outrage on social media, with many football fans deeming Mr. Rubiales’ actions as inappropriate.
The former England international Casey Stoney tweeted: “Would he kiss a male player like this? This is NOT ok.”
Asked about the moment, Hermoso told Spanish TV network La 1: “Eh… yeah, I did not enjoy that.”
Mr Rubiales was asked about the incident, telling Radio Marca that it was merely “two people having a minor show of affection” and that he will not take notice of “idiocy,” referencing those outraged by his behaviour.
“The kiss with Jenni? There are idiots everywhere,” he said. “When two people have a minor show of affection, we can’t listen to idiocies. We are champions and that is what stays with me”.
The World Cup victory marks another milestone in the illustrious career of 33-year-old Jenni Hermoso. She has enjoyed successful stints with clubs like Atletico Madrid and Barcelona and is presently playing for the Mexican team Pachuca.
Olga Carmona’s first-half goal perfectly epitomized Spain’s stylish brand of football and ultimately proved sufficient for Spain to narrowly defeat the Lionesses in Sydney. This win allowed Spain to avenge their loss to England in last year’s European Championships quarter-finals.
Although Hermoso had a penalty saved by England’s goalkeeper Mary Earps in the second half, the Lionesses couldn’t find an equalizer, and Jorge Vilda’s team held on for the victory.