Spain Women's star says "I did not enjoy that" after FA chief kisses her on lips

20 August 2023 , 16:41

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Jenni Hermoso was kissed on her lips by Spain FA president Luis Rubiales (Image: RTVE)

Spain’s World Cup star Jenni Hermoso has said she “did not enjoy it” when the Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales kissed her on the lips.

Hermoso, a veteran star of the Spanish team, was making her way onto the podium after receiving her World Cup winners medal after her side defeated England 1-0 in Sunday’s final. Once she was given her medal by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, she was greeted by several other dignitaries.

Among them was a visibly delighted Rubiales, who gave Hermoso a strong hug – temporarily lifting her off her feet – before briefly speaking to the player and then, when placing his hands on the back of her head, drew Hermoso in to kiss her on the lips. Footage of the incident swiftly became viral on social media with supporters of the Spanish team and many others highlighting the actions of Rubiales and stating that they were inappropriate.

Hermoso, who starred for an impressive and convincing Spanish team in the final, was asked about the exchange on Instagram Live which was amplified by Spain’s TV news station RTVE after the match. She appeared to be embarrassed and uncomfortable with the subject, and replied: "Eh...yeah, I did not enjoy that."

Hermoso, 33, is one of women's football’s most recognisable stars after a nearly two-decade-long career. She enjoyed two hugely successful stints at both Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, while also playing for Rayo Vallecano, Swedish side Tyreso, Paris Saint-Germain and her current club, Pachuca of Mexico.

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Her glorious career had encompassed seven Spanish league titles across three different clubs alongside eight different club trophies, including the 2021 Champions League with Barca. However, her World Cup success with Spain will go right to the top of her career highlights.

Olga Carmona's first-half winner was enough to settle a tense final, despite late England pressure, with both Lauren Hemp and substitute Lauren James going close. However, it was La Roja who were the superior team throughout the encounter.

Spain had a glorious double chance to double their lead in the second half when they were awarded a penalty kick during the second half after Keira Walsh handled the ball inside the area. However, Earps came up trumps by producing a tremendous save from Hermoso's effort.

England goalkeeper Mary Earps has been called into action and done well to keep the score at just 1-0, pulling off some fine stops. The frame of the goal has also come to the rescue of Sarina Weigman's side – who found themselves hanging on for most of the clash.

Colin Millar