Former England and Manchester United Women goalkeeper Mary Earps has publicly revealed for the first time that she is in a same-sex relationship, marking a deeply personal milestone for one of football’s most respected figures. The 31-year-old star, who currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain, made the announcement in her forthcoming autobiography All In, set to be released on November 6.
In excerpts shared with Sky Sports and GB News, Earps explained that she had long chosen to keep her private life away from the spotlight, but felt the time was right to share her truth. “I’ve always tried to keep my personal life separate from my professional one,” she said. “But it would have felt inauthentic not to include something so important to me in this book. I’m in a really happy relationship. The people closest to me have always known, and I feel ready and happy to share that with everyone else now.”
Earps, affectionately known to fans as “Mary Queen of Stops,” enjoyed a glittering career with Manchester United Women and England’s Lionesses before making a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024. Her performances on both the domestic and international stages earned her global acclaim, especially after her heroics during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where she won the Golden Glove award as England finished runners-up.
The Nottingham-born goalkeeper has long been admired for her discipline, mental toughness, and leadership on the field. However, her personal journey has often remained private—until now. In All In, Earps speaks openly about her relationship with her girlfriend, identified only as “Kitty,” while also addressing her battles with self-doubt and mental health. According to The Sun, she described her partner as her “greatest source of love and stability,” crediting her for helping her rediscover happiness after a difficult period in her career.
Her revelation has sparked widespread support and admiration from fans, fellow athletes, and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. British LGBT Awards founder Sarah Garrett praised Earps as a “trailblazer who continues to inspire young women and girls all over the world.” Garrett noted that Earps’ courage in being open about her relationship sends a powerful message about inclusivity in sport and helps normalize conversations around identity in football.
Within hours of the announcement, social media was flooded with messages of support. Fans described Earps as “brave,” “authentic,” and “a true role model,” highlighting her impact not just as an athlete but as a voice for acceptance. Fellow Lioness teammate Lucy Bronze also expressed solidarity, writing on Instagram, “Proud of you, Maz. Always leading with honesty and class.”
For much of her career, Earps was known for her quiet determination and focus on performance rather than publicity. Her decision to come forward at this stage reflects both her growing confidence and her commitment to using her platform responsibly. “Representation matters,” she wrote in a recent social post. “If my story helps even one person feel less alone, then it’s worth it.”
This moment also highlights the growing visibility of LGBTQ+ athletes in professional football. In recent years, several women’s footballers, including Pernille Harder, Sam Kerr, and Vivianne Miedema, have spoken publicly about their relationships, helping to foster a more open and inclusive environment within the sport. Earps’ announcement adds another powerful voice to that movement, demonstrating that authenticity and professionalism can coexist at the highest level.
Analysts believe her openness will further strengthen her legacy beyond the pitch. Having already inspired millions with her World Cup performances and fight for equal recognition in women’s football, Earps’ latest revelation cements her as one of the most influential figures in the modern game. Her story bridges both personal courage and social progress, reminding fans that athletes are more than their performances—they are people with real lives, challenges, and stories to tell.
The timing of her revelation also coincides with the release of All In, which is expected to delve into her rise from grassroots football to international fame, her leadership experiences, and her role in transforming Manchester United Women into a top-tier side. Early previews describe the book as “raw, emotional, and empowering,” offering fans a rare glimpse into the person behind the gloves.
In conclusion, Mary Earps’ decision to share her same-sex relationship with the world marks a defining moment in both her personal and professional journey. Her honesty reflects a broader cultural shift in sport, where authenticity and acceptance are increasingly valued. As she continues her career in Paris and prepares for the launch of her autobiography, Earps remains a role model whose courage extends far beyond the football field. Her revelation is not just a personal story—it’s a statement of strength, love, and freedom that will resonate with millions around the world.
Comments
Post a Comment