Since her first game in 2017, Mary Earps has proudly donned the England jersey 45 times.
Cementing her status as a pivotal figure in English football, goalkeeper Mary Earps has been honored as the Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year for 2023.
The seasoned 30-year-old was instrumental in the Lionesses’ campaign at the World Cup, securing three shutouts and clinching the esteemed Golden Glove as they charged into the final in August.
Not only a defensive bulwark for her country, Earps also attained an unprecedented milestone for female goalkeepers by placing fifth in the coveted Ballon d’Or rankings.
Taking the baton from preceding champions, athlete Eilish McColgan and the 2021 titleholder, tennis sensation Emma Raducanu, Earps has etched her name in the annals of sporting greatness.
Earps’ indomitable presence was felt in every tick of the clock during England’s World Cup journey across all seven matches. Her prowess was on full display, allowing a mere four goals past her and notably denying Jenni Hermoso from the spot in the nail-biting finale in Sydney, despite England’s narrow defeat to Spain by a single goal.
Her sterling performances weren’t just limited to international duty. Closer to home, Earps was a veritable fortress for Manchester United, setting a Women’s Super League record with 14 clean sheets last season, and steering her team to their inaugural Champions League berth.
Earps’ Golden Glove and Beyond
In a field brimming with exceptional talent, Earps stood out alongside fellow nominees: Katarina Johnson-Thompson, a heptathlon maestro with two world titles; Hannah Cockroft, a Paralympic hero with seven golds; and England’s cricketing star Tammy Beaumont.
Adding to the accolades, the Lionesses were collectively lauded as the Team of the Year after their groundbreaking journey to the World Cup final. Meanwhile, Hannah Cockroft celebrated her third accolade as the Disability Sportswoman of the Year.
The rising stars weren’t left without mention, as Mia Brookes, a prodigious teenage snowboarder, snagged the Young Sportswoman honor. In tandem, Olympic cyclist Katie Archibald received the Helen Rollason Award for Inspiration, paying homage to her influential spirit in the world of sports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mary Earps Sportswoman
Who is Mary Earps and what has she achieved?
Mary Earps is an esteemed English goalkeeper who has recently been honored with the 2023 Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year award. She has earned 45 caps for England since her debut in 2017 and has been a key player in the national team’s success. Earps played a crucial role in England’s journey to the World Cup final in 2023, where she kept three clean sheets and won the Golden Glove award. For her club, Manchester United, she recorded 14 clean sheets in the Women’s Super League last season, setting a new record and contributing to the team’s first-ever Champions League qualification.
What is the Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year award?
The Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year is an annual award that recognizes the outstanding contributions of female athletes in the world of sports. It celebrates exceptional performances, achievements, and breakthroughs made by sportswomen across various disciplines. Recipients of the award are seen as role models and are acknowledged for their inspiring dedication and success in their respective sports.
How did Mary Earps rank in the Ballon d’Or list?
Mary Earps achieved a historic feat by ranking fifth on the Ballon d’Or list, the highest-ever position for a female goalkeeper. This recognition places her among the elite footballers in the world and showcases her exceptional skills and contributions to the sport of football.
What record did Mary Earps set in the Women’s Super League?
During the last season in the Women’s Super League, Mary Earps set a new record by keeping 14 clean sheets. This outstanding performance contributed to Manchester United Women’s team securing a spot in the Champions League for the first time in their history.
Who were the other nominees for the Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year award?
The other nominees for the Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year award included Katarina Johnson-Thompson, a two-time heptathlon world champion; Hannah Cockroft, a seven-time Paralympic gold medalist; and Tammy Beaumont, an accomplished England cricketer. Each nominee has made significant contributions to their sports and were strong contenders for the award.
More about Mary Earps Sportswoman
- Mary Earps on the FA website
- Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year
- Ballon d’Or
- Women’s Super League
- Manchester United Women
- Katarina Johnson-Thompson
- Hannah Cockroft
- Tammy Beaumont
