[imagesource:twitter/mirrorfootball]

Spain’s victory in the Women’s World Cup final against England was marred by an incident involving Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales kissing Spain star Jenni Hermoso on the lips.

While it’s all very good and well celebrating the exciting win with emotional gusto, the kiss has left viewers with the ‘ick’, and understandably so.

The incident occurred as Hermoso made her way to the podium after Spain’s triumph. Rubiales hugged her, lifting her off her feet, and then grabbed her head in order to get a full-frontal smacker on the lips.

The moment attracted widespread outrage on social media, with many accusing Rubiales of inappropriate behaviour. Former England player Casey Stoney took to Twitter/X, calling out the big elephant in the room: that Rubiales would not subject a male player to this kind of ‘celebration’.

Would he kiss a male player like this? This is NOT ok https://t.co/jThKsEB8FK

— Casey Stoney MBE 💙 (@CaseyStoney) August 20, 2023

Hermoso has responded since the incident was televised and expressed her discomfort on Spanish TV network La 1, saying:

“Eh… yeah, I did not enjoy that.”

Rubiales defended his actions when asked about the incident, dismissing it as a “minor show of affection” between two people. He labeled those criticising him as “idiots” and highlighted the team’s achievement, stating, “We are champions and that is what stays with me.”

Um, that ‘affection’ clearly was not mutual, considering Hermoso’s response. It’s giving delusion, on the part of Rubiales.

The incident is also sadly not an unusual occurrence, with many netizens bringing up that this iffy World Cup moment represents a lot of the kind of tone-deaf behaviour female players experience.

Spanish FA President demonstrating exactly the type of behavior that players felt the need to formally address and were penalised for speaking up about https://t.co/E1HRapHBbB

— Sara Ramírez (@saradramirez) August 21, 2023

That being said, we have to give props to Hermoso and her achievements. Hermoso’s career has been illustrious, with successful stints at Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, as well as her current role with Mexican club Pachuca. Plus, with a World Cup victory added to her impressive accolades, Hermoso can be proud of an amazing year of hard work having paid off.

As for Rubiales, he should be given a proverbial red card for his disregard for proper conduct on the pitch. Sies. 

[source:independent]