Mary Earps has opened up about the emotional toll of her retirement from international football, expressing how the backlash left her feeling “villainised” by the public. The 32-year-old goalkeeper, who recently joined Paris Saint-Germain, announced her decision in May just weeks before England’s UEFA Women’s Euro title defence a move that sparked intense public reaction and criticism.
Despite the outside noise, Earps has been vocal about how the support she received from her England teammates provided much-needed comfort. Describing their solidarity as something that meant “the absolute world” to her, she acknowledged the deep emotional bond she shares with many of them, built over years of shared victories and sacrifices. Their backing served as an anchor during what she described as one of the most difficult and painful decisions of her life.
Having earned 53 caps for England and played a pivotal role in the Lionesses’ successes including their historic UEFA Women’s Euro triumph in 2022 and reaching the World Cup final in 2023 Earps’ decision to step away came as a surprise to many. The timing was a particular point of contention, with some critics questioning why she chose to walk away so close to a major tournament.
However, Earps stressed that this decision was far from impulsive. It was, she explained, a conclusion reached after a prolonged period of reflection. She acknowledged that while her public persona may have masked the internal struggles she was facing, the toll on her mental and physical health had become too significant to ignore.
“There was a sense of relief,” she admitted, reflecting on her retirement. “It had been so long coming.” Earps explained that she is typically private and internalises much of her emotional strain, which might have made her decision seem sudden or even shocking to those outside her inner circle. In reality, she had been engaged in private discussions about her future for quite some time.
Though unsure of how she will feel watching the Lionesses compete this summer, Earps made it clear that she harbours no bitterness. She spoke with admiration for the team, confident that they will perform well and continue the legacy of excellence. Her sentiments conveyed a mix of wistfulness and contentment sadness at leaving the stage, but pride in the journey.
Ultimately, Earps’ decision reflects the complex balance between professional commitment and personal wellbeing. Though hurt by the public reaction, she remains resolute that stepping away was the right call for her a choice rooted not in impulse, but in deep and personal understanding of her own limits.
