Spain star Jenni Hermoso insisted she “did not enjoy it” after being kissed on the lips by Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales.
The incident occurred as Hermoso made her approach to the rostrum after Spain defeated England within the Women’s World Cup remaining because of Olga Carmona’s strike.
After being given her medal by Fifa president Gianni Infantino, Hermoso was given a hug by Mr Rubiales, who lifted her off her toes.
A quick dialog between the pair adopted, earlier than Mr Rubiales grabbed Hermoso round her again and kissed her on the lips.
Outrage shortly unfold on social media, with soccer supporters accusing Mr Rubiales of inappropriate behaviour. The former England worldwide Casey Stoney tweeted: “Would he kiss a male player like this? This is NOT ok.”
Asked in regards to the second, Hermoso informed Spanish TV community La 1: “Eh… yeah, I did not enjoy that.”
Mr Rubiales was requested in regards to the incident, telling Radio Marca that it was merely “two people having a minor show of affection” and that he won’t take discover of “idiocy,” referencing these outraged by his behaviour.
“The kiss with Jenni? There are idiots everywhere,” he said. “When two people have a minor show of affection, we can’t listen to idiocies. We are champions and that is what stays with me”
The World Cup additional provides to a glittering profession for the 33-year-old Hermoso, who has spent profitable spells at Atletico Madrid and Barcelona and is presently taking part in for Mexican outfit Pachuca.
Carmona’s first-half strike epitomised Spain’s slick model of soccer and was finally sufficient for Spain to edge out the Lionesses in Sydney, gaining revenge for his or her defeat within the quarter-finals of final yr’s European Championships.
Hermoso noticed a penalty saved within the second half by England shot-stopper Mary Earps, however the Lionesses couldn’t discover an equaliser, with Jorge Vilda’s facet holding on for victory.
Spain’s Alexia Putellas (left), Jennifer Hermoso and Irene Paredes have fun with the trophy
(PA)