Bonmati's Bold Claim: World Cup Victory Changed Nothing!
Despite the global spotlight shining on Aitana Bonmati and her Spanish teammates after their monumental 2023 Women's World Cup win, it seems the victory sweep didn't clear away the longstanding issues plaguing Spain's female footballers. Bonmati, a dazzling football talent and revered Ballon d’Or winner, spilled the harsh truth in a candid chat with BBC Sport. "Nothing has shifted on the ground for us," she lamented, drawing a stark contrast with England’s experience where their Euro triumph seemingly revolutionized women's soccer.
"We won the World Cup, which is a bigger deal than the Euros, but our leagues are stuck in the same old rut. We face the same problems that we always had. It's a serious struggle," stated Bonmati.
The raw disappointment in Bonmati's revelation reflects the frigid improvement in attitudes towards women's soccer in Spain. High-profile incidents, like the non-consensual kiss that former federation president Luis Rubiales planted on Jenni Hormoso after the World Cup victory – subject now of a legal melee – underscore the deep-seated issues.
Spanish Stars Seek Refuge in England's WSL
As Spain juggles court dramas and boycotts, some of the nation's finest prospects have sought greener pastures abroad, particularly in England’s fully professional Women’s Super League (WSL). "People yearn to play in England because there, they get it right. They respect women’s football," Bonmati added, heaping praise on the WSL for its competitiveness and attractive investment. "The respect and empowerment for players and the league – it’s just not the same back home," she noted, eyes set on a more equitable playing field abroad.
While Spain’s female footballers continue to grapple with systemic inequities, their voices like Bonmati’s remain fearless, forging paths towards eventual change even in the face of frustrating inertia.
Editor: Vitalina Patskan
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