2023 Women’s World Cup: Jennifer Hermoso Addresses Controversial Kiss with Spanish FA President, Rubiales

The Spanish national team’s forward, Jennifer Hermoso, has recently issued a new statement diminishing the significance of the kiss she shared with Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish football federation, during the medal ceremony at the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Hermoso refers to the kiss as a “mutual gesture.”

Rubiales has faced considerable criticism for his overly familiar behavior towards the Spanish players during the medal ceremony, where he hugged and kissed each player on the cheek after their 1-0 victory over England in the final. However, when Hermoso, who is 33 years old, reached Rubiales in the line-up of dignitaries, he grabbed her head and kissed her on the lips.

Rubiales’ actions sparked a backlash on social media, and Hermoso expressed her disapproval during a live Instagram video from the dressing room after the ceremony. However, Hermoso has now released a statement to the Spanish press in an effort to put an end to the commotion, asserting that there is no need for excessive analysis of a gesture of friendship.

Hermoso stated, “It was a completely spontaneous mutual gesture, driven by the immense joy of winning a World Cup.”

She continued, “The president, Rubiales, and I have a great relationship.”

“There is no need to overanalyze a gesture of friendship and gratitude,” Hermoso concluded.