Spain forward Jenni Hermoso has finally spoken out about the guilty verdict given to Luis Rubiales for his unsolicited kiss after the 2023 Women’s World Cup final, stating that it sets an “important precedent” for society and women’s rights. This was her first public statement since the incident, and it has sent shockwaves throughout the football community.
The incident in question occurred when Rubiales, the president of the Spanish Football Federation, kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent during the celebrations after the Women’s World Cup final. The move was widely criticized, and an investigation was launched into the matter. After a thorough investigation, Rubiales was found guilty of misconduct, and his verdict has been hailed as a victory for women’s rights.
Hermoso’s statement emphasizes the significance of the verdict, not just for her personally, but for women everywhere who have been subjected to similar forms of harassment or misconduct. She expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her throughout the ordeal and thanked the authorities for taking her complaint seriously.
The guilty verdict is being seen as a landmark decision, as it acknowledges that unsolicited physical contact, especially of a sexual nature, is a form of harassment and will not be tolerated. It marks an important step forward in the fight against sexism and misogyny in sports and society as a whole.
Rubiales, on the other hand, has faced severe backlash for his actions, with many calling for his resignation from his position as the president of the Spanish Football Federation. His case has sparked a wider debate about the need for greater accountability and respect for women’s boundaries and personal space, especially in male-dominated fields like sports.
Hermoso’s courage in speaking out against Rubiales’ behavior has been praised by many, including her teammates, fans, and women’s rights activists. Her statement serves as a powerful reminder that women will no longer be silenced or intimidated by such behavior and that they will continue to fight for their rights and dignity.
As the football community continues to grapple with the fallout from the incident, one thing is clear: the guilty verdict given to Rubiales marks an important turning point in the fight against harassment and misconduct. It sends a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.
In the coming days and weeks, it will be interesting to see how the Spanish Football Federation responds to the verdict and whether Rubiales will face any further consequences for his actions. For now, however, the focus remains on Hermoso and her bravery in speaking out against injustice, inspiring countless women around the world to do the same.