Jenni Hermoso, the Spanish football star at the center of a controversy following an unwanted kiss by then-Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales, has spoken out about the incident’s impact on her.
In an interview with GQSpain, Hermoso revealed that she received threats and that the ordeal took a significant toll on her mental health. “These weeks have been very difficult,” she said. “Having to tell it over and over again was hurting me a lot. But I know I had to let it go somehow.”
Hermoso, who has been working with a psychologist for many years, emphasized the importance of mental health in her life. “For me, mental health is as important as daily training, like the hours I have to sleep to be able to go out on the field,” she stated.
Despite the challenges she faced, Hermoso expressed her determination to continue playing football and to use her platform to promote positive change. “I’ve had to assume the consequences of an act that I did not provoke, that I had not chosen or premeditated,” she said. “I have received threats, which you never get used to.”
Rubiales has maintained that the kiss was consensual, but his actions sparked outrage and led to the creation of the hashtag #SeAcabo, meaning “It’s over,” which called for fundamental changes in the game. Hermoso, who never sought to be at the center of this controversy, hoped to use her platform to advocate for change.
“I want to be remembered as someone who has wanted to leave Spain at the top but, above all, as someone who has tried to change many mentalities,” she declared. “Fortunately or unfortunately, there is this story, but I will learn to take advantage of it positively to fight for what I believe is good for society. The #SeAcabo movement must bring a new era.”
Hermoso’s experience highlights the importance of respecting boundaries and the potential impact of unwanted behavior. Her courage in speaking out and her commitment to using her platform to promote positive change inspire many.