Legendary England goalie pronounces same-sex relationship saying ‘I’m completely satisfied to share’
Mary Earps, 32, reportedly wanted to share the details about her sexuality ahead of the publication of her upcoming memoirs, so that she could do it on her terms
Former England Lionesses goalie Mary Earps has revealed she is in a ‘happy’ same-sex relationship, the BBC reports.
Her manager, Tina Taylor, said Earps hopes that being open about her life off the pitch will “inspire people around the word to find the confidence to live authentically”.
Earps was England’s number one when they won the Euros in 2022 in a historic summer for women’s football and kept that spot for the Lionesses’ run to the final a year later, when she was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year.
She has also been influential off the pitch, notably inspiring with award acceptance speeches and winning a battle with Nike to get women’s goalkeeper replica shirts on sale.
Earps, 32, has disclosed the details about her sexuality ahead of the upcoming publication of her memoir. According to the BBC, the goalie wanted to publish a statement confirming her sexuality in order that it doesn’t distract from other themes in the book, including her struggles with mental health.
Her manager told the BBC the former Manchester United player wanted to share her story “in her own way”.
“After the World Cup, the outpouring of love and support really showed Mary the impact she’s had, and she was deeply touched by it,” she said.
“By sharing details of her life away from football – something she’s never done before – Mary is telling her story in her own way. It’s honest and authentic.”
Earps was promised a ‘full tribute’ to recognise her ‘international career and her significant contribution to English football’ after she chose to call time on her stint with the Lionesses before the summer’s Euros.
Since then several games and international windows have come and gone without Earps being recognised and the 31-year-old, who is now playing her football with PSG, declined an FA invitation to hold the tribute before the Lionesses’ friendly against China at Wembley on November 29.
The Daily Mail reports that discussions have taken place between Earps and her representatives. She has declined on this occasion due to a scheduling conflict but talks are expected to resume after next week’s World Cup qualification draw. An FA source insisted that they remain committed to a tribute to Earps and that it is merely a scheduling matter.
