Mary Earps presented Hannah Hampton with the award: Fans noticed the tension.

Controversial Award Ceremony

According to The Sun: Football fans noticed that Mary Earps remained calm as she presented Hannah Hampton with the Ballon d'Or for the best female goalkeeper.

Hampton received the Yashin Award for Women for her contribution to England's victory at Euro 2025.

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Reactions from the Audience

When Hampton replaced Earps as England's starting goalkeeper, fans referred to the moment as 'diabolical'.

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Some noted that Earps looked 'angry' during the award ceremony towards Hampton.

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On stage, Earps, the former England goalkeeper, announced Hampton as the winner alongside Manchester City's new star Gianluigi Donnarumma, who received the men's award.

Earps' Retirement from the Game

Earps, the heroine of England who helped the team win Euro 2022, shocked everyone when she announced her retirement earlier this year. Many believe it was due to losing her status as the starting goalkeeper.

Head coach Sarina Wiegman admitted she was 'unpleasantly surprised' by her decision.

As Earps presented the award to Hampton and watched her speech, keen fans noticed she looked 'unimpressed'.

One commentator emphasized that it was an 'absolutely brilliant' moment.

"I am very disappointed, I want her on my team. She has done great work for England," said Wiegman.

Challenge for Earps

Upon her exit from the team, Earps noted she did it to give younger players the chance to play for the Lionesses.

"It is emotional because we have relationships and have gone through many ups and downs. It is hard. I am sad," added Wiegman.

Earps admitted she was 'haunted' by fans after her decision and she... Getty Getty

She shared on the podcast Happy Place: "It was hard and painful. Some people were great, the girls supported me. It meant a lot to me."

"I feel that it was the right decision," she concluded.

The awards at these ceremonies are always accompanied by emotions and controversies, as it is not only an opportunity to acknowledge achievements but also to support the players. The case of Earps and Hampton reflects the difficulties faced by athletes when competition rises and personal relationships come to the forefront. These events highlight the importance of believing in one's abilities and the support of peers during tough times.