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Hermoso testifies against Rubiales over World Cup kiss
Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso leaves after testifying at a court on the outskirts of Madrid, Spain, February 3, 2025

WHEN the former president of Spain’s Football Federation kissed a player from the national team who had just won the 2023 Women’s World Cup, it sparked widespread outrage in Spain about sexism in sports and beyond.

Today, World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso testified at the trial of Luis Rubiales that she did not consent to the kiss and that she felt coerced to publicly exonerate him after the incident.

“I felt disrespected,” Hermoso said. “I think it was a moment that stained one of the happiest days of my life.”

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