The Spanish Football Federation’s president, Luis Rubiales, has come under fire for kissing Jennifer Hermoso on the lips during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final trophy presentation.
Rubiales, evidently moved by his country’s historic victory, in which they defeated England 1-0 to claim the Cup for the first time, embraced all of the players as they approached the stage to receive their medals.
Hermoso, who scored three goals during the tournament, was the only player who was kissed on the lips, to the displeasure of many.
Rubiales has since received backlash for the awkward kiss on the player’s lips, who said on an Instagram live: ‘Eh, but I didn’t like it.’
Meanwhile, Spain became the fifth country to win the FIFA Women’s World Cup, doing so in their third appearance.
During the match, Hermoso had an opportunity to put the final out of reach with 20 minutes remaining when her penalty was saved by England goalkeeper Mary Earps.
READ MORE: Spain beat England to win the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup
La Roja, however, outplayed the Three Lionesses to win their first major trophy on Sunday at Stadium Australia, thanks to Olga Carmona’s 29th-minute goal.