Spain star Jenni Hermoso thanks support of ‘thousands of players’ amid Luis Rubiales scandal and controversy involving former La Roja boss Jorge Vilda

Hermoso clinched the Women’s World Cup title with Spain in Australia and New Zealand. However, her moment of glory was tarnished with controversy as she was subjected to a distressing incident just moments after receiving her winners’ medal with former Spanish football federation president, Rubiales, kissing her forcibly on the mouth during the prize distribution ceremony.

Footballers across the globe swiftly rallied behind Hermoso, condemning the assault and demanding justice for the striker. FIFPRO, the global players' union, voiced its unequivocal support for Hermoso and urged authorities to take exemplary action against Rubiales. The hashtag #SeAcabó (it’s over) and the message "Contigo, Jenni" (We’re with you, Jenni) flooded social media platforms, showcasing solidarity and support for Hermoso during this challenging time.

Reflecting on the overwhelming support she received, Hermoso told FIFPRO: "It was important not to feel alone in a moment that can be terrible in your life, difficult to adapt. The fact that there are thousands of players who are with you means that you are on the right path, that you have many people behind you who push you to continue doing what you feel like doing, and for me, it was very important because it made me feel protected."

Hermoso emphasized the power of unity, not only in addressing her personal ordeal but also in advocating for broader issues within women’s football. She cited recent collective efforts by FIFPRO, member unions, and women’s international footballers worldwide in securing improved pay and conditions for the Women’s World Cup as a testament to the effectiveness of unity in driving positive change.

"Unity is the most important thing," stated Hermoso. "We have already seen that when the world unites when the players unite, it is unstoppable. I think it's going to take us many years, but people are already aware and have in their minds the reality of what is today and what will be tomorrow.

"Spain set a precedent. The unity of the players meant that there was a before and after. And I think that this power, this union, this comradeship is going to ensure that certain attitudes that ultimately harm us and the sport in general will not be repeated."

Rubiales has been handed a three-year suspension by FIFA from any football-related activity and the former administrator has also lost the appeal to overturn his ban. Whereas, Hermoso is back on the pitch and is currently plying her trade with Tigres UANL.