Soon after securing the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup title, a dark cloud was cast over Spanish celebrations. Spain’s inaugural World Cup win was tainted by the inappropriate behavior and questionable conduct of the President of the Spanish FA, Luis Rubiales, towards player Jenni Hermoso.

Both athletes and fans have called out Rubiales asking for his resignation, with Megan Rapinoe being one of the prominent figures expressing disapproval. Evidently, she isn’t alone as she found an ‘ally’ in the form of Barcelona manager, Xavi.

Barcelona boss Xavi rallies alongside Megan Rapinoe

Many are joining the worldwide campaign in support of Hermoso, with Barcelona boss Xavi being the latest addition. During a press conference, the former Spain international vocally expressed his thoughts on the incident. He said, “First of all, I want to give my unconditional support to Jenni Hermoso and the women’s football players for the moments you are living right now. Second, I want to condemn the behavior of the RFEF President, which I find unacceptable.”

“And finally, I want to show my feelings of shame and sadness that we don’t talk about the women’s World Cup, which I think is a historic milestone for our sport, but we talk about this behavior which is intolerable. That said, I hope I have been clear and forceful in my statement,” he concluded. Aside from the soccer fraternity, this speech caught the eye of Megan Rapinoe, who appreciated the 43-year-old’s stance.

Trending

Italian Open: Nicolas Jarry’s Wife Laura Conveys Million-Dollar Worth of Emotions in Single Moment as Husband Scripts History

Roger Federer Turns Teary Eyed Over Wife Mirka Breaking 15-Year Long Silence for His Upcoming Documentary

Tennis Rumor: Paula Badosa’s Shock Reunion With Stefanos Tstisipas Days After Break-Up Will Surely Surprise Fans

Coco Gauff’s Coach’s Call for a Serious Action Backfires After Fans Use the Occasion to Criticize American’s Shortcomings

Alexander Zverev Clears the Air on His Court Hearing That Could Impact French Open Participation

The OL Reign star reshared his clip on her Instagram story and wrote, “Ally. Huge platform used for solidarity and equality.” She also wrote, “Bravo Xavi.” Perhaps, the USWNT star was impressed with Xavi’s stance and she also appreciated his efforts to stand in support of the player.

“It Was the Wrong Collection of Players” – After Donald Trump’s Criticism of Megan Rapinoe, USMNT Legend Takes a Dig at USWNT

Interestingly, a couple of other athletes have also voiced their opinions, with Borja Iglesias declaring that he won’t be available for selection in the men’s national team. Apart from Rapinoe, who praised Igleasis’ stance, even the spouse of Serena Williams, Alexis Ohanian joined to endorse the movement.

Serena Williams’ husband rallies for Spain’s women’s team

Rubiales’ kissing Jenni Hermoso and holding his crotch after the post-match ceremony is drawing criticism worldwide. Alexis Ohanian, the spouse of tennis legend Serena Williams, also spoke for the cause. He shared Hermoso’s interview remarks on his Instagram, shedding light on the situation. Additionally, FIFA has taken the step to suspend Rubiales from any soccer-related engagements for a period of 90 days while investigation is underway.

Although Rubiales offered an apology for his conduct, he has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the kiss was mutual. In her recent statement, Jenni Hermoso explicitly stated that the kiss was not consensual. But the player is set to get served a legal notice from RFEF.

WATCH THIS STORY: American Athletes With Ownership in Soccer Teams