Jennifer Hermoso Fuentes, known as Jenni Hermoso, is a name synonymous with resilience, talent, and advocacy in women’s football. As Spain’s all-time leading goalscorer and a key figure in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup triumph, Hermoso has cemented her legacy as one of the sport’s brightest stars.
However, her journey extends beyond the pitch, marked by her courageous stand against injustice and her role in sparking a global conversation about consent and gender equality. This article delves into Hermoso’s illustrious career, her recent challenges, her impact on and off the field, and addresses the questions fans have been asking on platforms like YouTube and Google as of June 2025.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Born on May 9, 1990, in Madrid, Spain, Jenni Hermoso grew up in a family that nurtured her love for football. From a young age, she displayed an aptitude for the sport, playing alongside boys in local teams. Her grandfather, a former goalkeeper, played a pivotal role in her early development, encouraging her to pursue her dreams in a male-dominated sport. Hermoso’s talent was evident early on, and she joined the youth ranks of Atlético Madrid, a club that would shape her career.
Breaking Through at Atlético Madrid
Hermoso’s professional career began with Atlético Madrid’s senior team in 2006, where she quickly established herself as a versatile forward with a knack for scoring. Her ability to read the game, combined with her technical prowess, made her a standout player. After stints with Rayo Vallecano and Tyresö FF in Sweden, she returned to Atlético Madrid in 2013, where she truly came into her own. During her second spell with the club, she helped secure the 2016–17 Primera División title and won the Pichichi Trophy as the league’s top scorer in 2016 and 2017.
International Breakthrough
Hermoso’s international career began with Spain’s youth teams, but her senior debut in 2012 marked the start of a remarkable journey. Known for her composure under pressure, she became a linchpin for La Roja, scoring crucial goals in major tournaments. Her performances at the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups showcased her ability to compete on the global stage, setting the stage for her pivotal role in Spain’s 2023 World Cup victory.
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Triumph and Controversy
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand, was a defining moment for Jenni Hermoso and the Spanish national team. Spain clinched their first-ever Women’s World Cup title, defeating England 1–0 in the final. Hermoso, wearing the iconic number 10 jersey, was instrumental in Spain’s campaign, contributing with goals and assists. Her experience and leadership were vital in guiding a talented but relatively young squad to glory.
The Luis Rubiales Incident
While Spain’s World Cup victory should have been a moment of unbridled joy, it was overshadowed by a shocking incident during the medal ceremony. Luis Rubiales, then-president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent, sparking global outrage. The unsolicited kiss, broadcast live to millions, led to a firestorm of criticism and ignited a broader conversation about sexism and consent in sports.
Hermoso immediately clarified that the kiss was non-consensual, stating on Instagram that she felt “vulnerable and a victim of aggression.” Despite pressure from Rubiales and his allies to downplay the incident, Hermoso stood firm, supported by her teammates and the global football community. The incident led to Rubiales’ resignation and a three-year ban from football by FIFA, upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in February 2025.
Legal Battle and Historic Verdict
In February 2025, Spain’s High Court found Rubiales guilty of sexual assault for the non-consensual kiss, fining him €10,800 (£8,942) and ordering him to pay €3,000 in compensation to Hermoso. The court also imposed a one-year restraining order, prohibiting Rubiales from approaching within 200 meters of Hermoso or contacting her. The judge’s ruling emphasized that the kiss violated Hermoso’s “sexual freedom,” setting a significant precedent for addressing sexual misconduct in sports.
Hermoso hailed the verdict as an “important precedent” for women’s rights, stating on Instagram, “After all, this will create an important precedent in a social environment in which much remains to be done.” However, both Hermoso and Rubiales announced plans to appeal the ruling, with Hermoso’s lawyer, Angel Chavarria, indicating dissatisfaction with aspects of the verdict. A Spanish prosecutor also requested a retrial in March 2025, arguing for a stronger penalty.
The trial was a grueling experience for Hermoso, who testified that the incident “stained one of the happiest days of my life.” Her courage in facing repeated cross-examination and public scrutiny was widely praised, with Spanish Justice Minister Felix Bolanos lauding her for defending women’s rights. The case galvanized Spain’s #MeToo movement, highlighting the need for systemic change in addressing sexism in sports and society.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Hermoso’s club career spans some of the biggest names in women’s football. After her success with Atlético Madrid, she joined FC Barcelona in 2014, where she won multiple league titles and the UEFA Women’s Champions League in 2021. Her time at Barcelona was marked by her prolific goal-scoring and playmaking abilities, earning her the Ballon d’Or Féminin runner-up spot in 2021.
In 2022, Hermoso made a bold move to Pachuca in Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, where she continued to shine, scoring 26 goals in 40 appearances and helping the club reach the playoffs. Her stint in Mexico was followed by a return to Europe with UANL Tigres in 2024, where she won the Liga MX Femenil Apertura title in 2024. As of June 2025, Hermoso remains a key player for Tigres, showcasing her enduring talent at age 35.
International Records and Legacy
Hermoso is Spain’s all-time leading goalscorer with over 50 goals in more than 100 appearances for the national team. Her contributions to Spain’s 2023 World Cup victory and the 2022–23 UEFA Women’s Nations League title have solidified her status as a national hero. Despite her achievements, her exclusion from Spain’s national team since October 2024 has sparked debate, with fans and pundits questioning whether her outspokenness against Rubiales has led to her being sidelined.
Awards and Recognition
Hermoso’s trophy cabinet is a testament to her brilliance. She has won seven Spanish league titles, four Copas de la Reina, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Individually, she has claimed the Pichichi Trophy multiple times and was named to the FIFA FIFPro Women’s World11 in 2020 and 2021. Her advocacy off the field has also earned her accolades, with many hailing her as a role model for standing up to power.
Impact Beyond the Pitch
Hermoso’s stand against Rubiales has made her a symbol of resistance against sexism in sports. Her courage inspired her teammates, including Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí, who expressed hope that the Rubiales conviction would drive systemic change. England manager Sarina Wiegman and players like Lucy Bronze also praised Hermoso’s bravery, emphasizing the global solidarity she galvanized.
The case has had far-reaching effects, prompting reforms within the RFEF and sparking discussions about gender equality in Spanish society. Hermoso’s refusal to be silenced, despite facing death threats and public pressure, has resonated with women worldwide, making her a pivotal figure in the MeToo movement.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As a role model, Hermoso has inspired countless young athletes to pursue football and stand up for their rights. Her journey from Madrid’s local pitches to global stardom demonstrates the power of perseverance. Through social media and public appearances, she encourages young girls to chase their dreams, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and resilience.
Challenges and Resilience
The Rubiales incident took a significant toll on Hermoso, who admitted to struggling emotionally in its aftermath. The trial’s public nature and the defense’s attempts to question her behavior post-incident highlighted the challenges victims face in seeking justice. Yet, Hermoso’s strength shone through, as she continued to perform at an elite level while advocating for change. Her story underscores the importance of supporting survivors and challenging victim-blaming attitudes.
The Road Ahead for Jenni Hermoso
As of June 2025, Jenni Hermoso remains a force in women’s football, both on and off the field. At 35, she continues to excel at Tigres UANL, with fans eagerly watching her performances in Liga MX Femenil. While her future with the Spanish national team remains uncertain, her legacy as a World Cup champion and advocate for change is secure. The ongoing appeals in the Rubiales case may bring further developments, but Hermoso’s impact on football and society is undeniable.
Potential Return to Europe: Speculation about Hermoso’s next move is rife, with some fans searching “Will Jenni Hermoso return to Europe?” on Google and YouTube. While she appears settled in Mexico, a return to a European club or a new challenge in another league could be on the cards. Her experience and leadership would be a coup for any team, and fans are hopeful she might end her career in Spain.
A Lasting Legacy: Regardless of what lies ahead, Jenni Hermoso’s contributions to women’s football are monumental. She has broken barriers, shattered records, and challenged the status quo. Her story is one of triumph over adversity, and her influence will be felt for generations to come.
FAQs
What is Jenni Hermoso’s career history?
Hermoso began her career at Atlético Madrid, later playing for Rayo Vallecano, Tyresö FF in Sweden, and Paris Saint-Germain. She returned to Atlético Madrid before joining FC Barcelona in 2019, where she became the club’s all-time leading scorer with 181 goals. In 2022, she moved to Mexico to play for Pachuca, and in 2024, she signed with Tigres UANL.
What controversy did Jenni Hermoso face in 2023?
During the 2023 Women’s World Cup final, after Spain’s victory, former Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent. The incident sparked widespread outrage and led to legal proceedings. In February 2025, Rubiales was found guilty of sexual assault and fined €10,800, with a one-year restraining order from Hermoso. He was acquitted of coercion charges.
How has Jenni Hermoso responded to the incident?
Hermoso has been vocal about the incident, stating, “Now it’s over,” emphasizing the importance of the case in setting a precedent for women’s rights in sports. She has also expressed frustration over her exclusion from the national team, despite her performance at Tigres UANL.
What is Jenni Hermoso’s current club and international status?
As of June 2025, Hermoso plays for Tigres UANL in Liga MX Femenil. She has been excluded from recent Spain national team convocations, with coach Montse Tomé citing “sporting reasons.” Hermoso has publicly criticized the lack of transparency regarding her exclusion.
In Summary
Jenni Hermoso is more than a footballer; she is a trailblazer who has redefined what it means to be a champion. From her record-breaking goals to her fearless stand against injustice, she has left an indelible mark on the sport and society. As fans continue to search for her highlights, interviews, and updates on YouTube and Google, Hermoso’s story resonates as a testament to resilience, talent, and the power of speaking truth to power. Whether on the pitch or in the courtroom, Jenni Hermoso continues to inspire, proving that true greatness extends far beyond the game.
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