SPANISH WOMEN'S TEAM
Watch Jenni Hermoso’s impactful statement after the Rubiales kiss
The Spanish player’s World Cup win was overshadowed by the Luis Rubiales incident, but she has found meaning in the win beyond just victory for her country.
Jenni Hermoso won the World Cup with the Spanish team this year for the first time in nation’s history. However, the victory was tainted by an unfortunate incident which occurred just after the win, when Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent. Much has happened since then, including the resignation of Rubiales, but now Hermoso has given an official speech and its impact will leave you feeling empowered.
Jenni Hermoso’s empowering speech
“On the night of August 20, 2023, when I raised that trophy with my teammates, I could feel my father’s hand when he took me to train, my mother’s smile watching me play, and the joy of my entire family sharing the dream of a young soccer player who wanted to be world champion.”
”I keep wondering what really happened that night. We won a title, we went around the world and became one of the best teams in history, but deep down we achieved something much more human and transcendental. We were not champions for lifting a trophy that would stay in the display case, receiving a compensation bonus, or appearing on thousands of covers over time. We were world champions because that was the only way we had left to be heard, respected and valued.”
”My national team changed the way many people see women’s soccer. I am sure that millions of girls around the world have felt identified and protected by this group of brave, committed and honest players, who with every step they have taken, have always thought about the future of those girls.”
“Many things have happened since then. Perhaps we sacrificed some joys, some celebrations, and without deserving it, we suffered more than necessary in a historic moment for us. But I am clear that we have an enormous responsibility to the new generations. To those people who do not have a loudspeaker to make themselves heard, I want to tell you that this fight belongs to everyone. We win on the field and off it to ensure a sport and an inclusive society that protects us all.”
”And to all of you, I want to say, ‘It’s Over’.”