August 20th 2023.
Jennifer Hermoso has released a statement in response to the huge backlash following Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales' kiss during the Women's World Cup Medal Ceremony.
The kiss, described by Hermoso as a "natural expression of affection" occurred when the forward made her way along the line-up of dignitaries and embraced the Spanish FA president. Rubiales grabbed her by the head and kissed her on the lips.
However, the player had said she "didn't like it" during an Instagram live from the dressing room afterwards.
Hermoso's statement sought to quell the uproar created by the kiss. She clarified that the "completely spontaneous mutual gesture" was due to the immense joy of winning a World Cup, and that the president and she have an excellent relationship.
The statement further emphasized the importance of not straying from what's important - that they have just won a World Cup.
The Spanish team had been embroiled in controversy prior to their victory. A dispute between the players and their manager, Jorge Vilda, saw 15 players writing a letter to the Spanish FA earlier this year saying they would not play under him.
Rubiales had stood by Vilda, and 12 of the rebels, including some of Europe's best players, missed the tournament as a result. Rubiales appeared to aim a dig at them afterwards, saying: ‘We have worked very hard, although there were people who did not want to let us work.’
The win was further overshadowed by the sad news that Olga Carmona, who scored the winning goal against England, had been informed of the death of her father following the match.
All in all, a bittersweet victory for the Spanish team, and the unfortunate incident between Rubiales and Hermoso has been put to rest with Hermoso's statement.
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