Individuals must take responsibility for their decisions and their consequences; this principle should apply universally. In women’s sports, particularly football, there is a desire for idealized figures who embody perfection and serve as role models. However, the progress of women’s football owes much to those who dared to challenge convention and break the mold. The burden of being seen as flawless is substantial — no one is without their complexities, and everyone is capable of making mistakes. It is unfortunate that Mary Earps chose to publish her autobiography while still actively playing, particularly regarding the timing of its release. This decision has led to discomfort and sadness among fans and fellow players alike, particularly in relation to Mary and her teammate Hannah Hampton, whose journeys many have closely followed. Their successes have been celebrated as part of the Lionesses’ achievements. This situation has sparked a reevaluation of what constitutes a role model in women’s football, leading to a sense of disillusionment among supporters. It challenges the idealized expectations surrounding these athletes. Athletes manage their emotions and pressures in diverse ways, and while I empathize with Mary’s need to share her narrative and metaphorically close a chapter on her England career, it raises uncomfortable questions about the potential repercussions for both Hampton and manager Sarina Wiegman. There exists an unspoken agreement that team dynamics and interpersonal matters should remain confidential to foster trust and mutual respect. While it is not necessary to maintain constant affection, respect is paramount. Mary is navigating a significant transition, and while this experience may be a challenging lesson, I believe in her character and hope she can reaffirm her esteemed position in the sport. This leads to a broader reflection on how we perceive successful women who seek to express their authenticity, as Mary has articulated. Are we imposing unrealistic standards on how women should manage their emotions? For a long time, we have fiercely guarded women’s football in England, striving to eliminate negativity in all facets of the game. However, increased scrutiny has necessitated a more adept handling of public image and perception — an aspect that, perhaps, was not as critical before. In contrast, former USA players often exhibit different attitudes. They are accustomed to confronting direct personalities, regardless of agreement or disagreement. Mary is not the first athlete to publish an autobiography that critiques others or shares her perspective on perceived injustices. When making personal narratives public, one must anticipate varied reactions. However, it appears she was caught off guard by the backlash. Reflecting on whether I would have made a similar decision while still competing, I lean towards a cautious stance. Nonetheless, this was a decision made by Mary with the guidance of those around her. An autobiography unveils personal insights — revealing aspects of her emotional state, experiences, and relationships with teammates, particularly with Hannah Hampton. Such vulnerability can be daunting. It is fair to scrutinize the advice she received regarding this undertaking; athletes must ensure that their best interests are prioritized appropriately. Mary Earps has stated, “I have not written this book to undermine anyone.” It would be naïve to assume that in any team, all 23 members coexist perfectly. At elite levels, where pressure and competition for positions are intense, differences in personalities are inevitable. Wiegman’s ability to manage diverse personalities and provide avenues for growth and reintegration into the England squad deserves recognition. Ultimately, Mary is a dedicated athlete grappling with a new chapter in her life outside international football. Unfortunately, her experience within the broader women’s football ecosystem has been mismanaged. The most significant takeaway is that while accountability for decisions is crucial, no one deserves to face abuse for sharing their perspective or experiences. Anita Asante spoke with BBC Sport’s senior women’s football news reporter, Emma Sanders. Mary Earps clarified, “I have not written this book to tear anyone down.” Tune in to the Women’s Football Weekly podcast, featuring Ben Haines, Ellen White, and Jen Beattie, with new episodes available every Tuesday on BBC Sounds. Discover interviews and additional content from the Women’s Super League and beyond on the Women’s Football Weekly feed.
