In the world of football, there are stars that shine brightly, and then there’s Mary Earps, the guardian of England’s net and a vital pillar for Manchester United. In a grand recognition of her outstanding skills and unwavering commitment, Mary Earps has been named the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year for 2023.
Golden Glove Glory and More
Earps’ journey to this prestigious award was paved with remarkable achievements. Most notably, she secured the Golden Glove during England’s impressive run to the World Cup final last August. Despite a heart-wrenching 1-0 loss to Spain in the final, Earps’s heroics between the posts, including a crucial second-half penalty save, etched her name in football history.
Her contributions extended to the domestic front as well, where she played a pivotal role in Manchester United’s second-place finish in the 2022-23 Women’s Super League (WSL). In fact, she set a new WSL record by keeping an astonishing 14 clean sheets during the season. It’s safe to say that she’s been a game-changer for her club.
In her own words, Mary Earps expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am truly honored. To be the first goalkeeper to get their hands on the award is special, and I am incredibly grateful.” Her humility is as striking as her goalkeeping prowess.
Fan Support and Advocacy
But Mary Earps isn’t just a star on the pitch; she’s also making waves off it. During the World Cup, she didn’t hesitate to take on England’s kit manufacturer, Nike, for not producing replicas of her goalkeeper shirt for fans. This move showcased her dedication not only to the game but also to the fans who support it.
A Surprising Victory
When asked about her win, Earps admitted that she thought Spain’s Aitana Bonmati might take the title. She acknowledged Bonmati’s skills, highlighting the tough competition in women’s football today.
Mary Earps’s journey to this moment hasn’t been without its share of challenges. After a two-year absence from the England national team between 2019 and 2021, she contemplated retiring from international football. However, she persevered and has now firmly established herself as one of the world’s top goalkeepers. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of resilience and determination.
Congratulations and Challenges Ahead
England’s head coach, Sarina Wiegman, congratulated Earps, urging her to continue her quest for greatness. “You have to keep going – get some more. Enjoy this award,” Wiegman said. It’s clear that Mary Earps is not resting on her laurels, and we can expect to see more extraordinary performances from her in the future.
Mary Earps’s victory is not just a personal triumph; it’s a win for all goalkeepers who often don’t receive the recognition they deserve. As the fourth Briton to win the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award, she joins an elite group of women who have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Congratulations, Mary Earps, on this well-deserved honor. Your dedication to the game, advocacy for fans, and outstanding performances make you a true footballing icon, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.
In a world where talent and determination meet, Mary Earps stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and unwavering passion for the beautiful game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mary Earps Footballer of the Year
What is the significance of Mary Earps winning BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2023?
Mary Earps winning this prestigious award highlights her exceptional talent and contributions to women’s football, both at the international and club levels.
What achievements led to Mary Earps receiving this award?
Mary Earps secured the Golden Glove during England’s World Cup run and played a crucial role in Manchester United’s second-place finish in the Women’s Super League, setting a new clean sheet record.
How did Mary Earps advocate for fans during the World Cup?
Mary Earps advocated for fans by calling out Nike for not producing replicas of her goalkeeper shirt, showcasing her dedication to both the game and its supporters.
What message does Mary Earps’s story send to aspiring footballers?
Mary Earps’s story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that resilience and determination can overcome challenges and lead to success in the world of football.
How does Mary Earps plan to build on this achievement?
England’s head coach, Sarina Wiegman, encouraged Mary Earps to continue striving for greatness, suggesting that there is more to come from this talented goalkeeper.
More about Mary Earps Footballer of the Year
- Mary Earps Wins BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2023
- Mary Earps’ Golden Glove Performance
- Manchester United’s Women’s Super League Campaign
- Mary Earps Advocacy for Fans During World Cup
- Mary Earps’ Resilience and Determination
