Unavoidable Fallout in Women's Soccer: Insights from Arsenal and England Star Leah Williamson
Leah Williamson, Arsenal and England star, predicts that the ongoing conflict between Spain's soccer federation and players was unavoidable Discover the silver lining amidst the fallout in women's soccer (305 characters)
England and Arsenal star Leah Williamson believes that a conflict similar to the current situation in Spain, where there is tension between the soccer federation and the players, was bound to happen. This disagreement emerged after the previous president, Luis Rubiales, who stepped down recently, involuntarily kissed the renowned player Jennifer Hermoso on the lips following Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup.
One month after the incident, it seems that a resolution has been achieved in the dispute between the two parties. The High Council of Sport (CSD), along with the governments, played a significant role in reaching a series of agreements.
Speaking from the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Williamson highlights that this dispute is indicative of the prevailing conditions in the women's game globally.
"It's a moment that was bound to happen given the football environment we have," stated Williamson in an interview with CNN Sports' Amanda Davies. "I appreciate the attention it's receiving, but as a fellow footballer, I empathize with the difficulties the girls are facing.
"No player should endure the challenges they are currently experiencing. This is precisely why I am here at the UN, as I have the chance to advocate for better conditions for young women in the future."
Williamson captained England to victory at Euro 2021.
Naomi Baker/Getty Images
"We obviously have issues in more places than we think, especially a European country like Spain, which appears to be fine from the outside and this turned out not to be."
As a female footballer, Williamson acknowledges her duty to enhance the conditions for others globally. She expresses her commitment to support her colleagues and competitors whenever they require her assistance. Such challenges are prevalent in women's soccer, something Williamson and her England teammates are all too familiar with.
Every cloud has a silver lining
The players' months-long dispute with the English FA over pay and bonuses, which had been casting a shadow over the Lionesses' World Cup preparations, has finally come to an end, as revealed by stand-in captain Millie Bright during a press conference held on Thursday.After sustaining a knee injury in the Arsenal Women's Super League match against Manchester United in April, Williamson received the devastating news that soccer players fear the most: a torn ACL. Consequently, her cherished aspiration of captaining England in a World Cup was shattered, at least until the next tournament in four years. In addition, she faced numerous months of arduous rehabilitation before she could resume playing on the field.
Undoubtedly one of the lowest points in her career has now presented her with the chance to explore and encounter new experiences she otherwise would not have had. Williamson recently journeyed to Zaatari in Jordan, the world's largest Syrian refugee camp, to witness the positive impact of soccer on girls and communities. She later shared her invaluable experiences at the UN summit in New York on Tuesday.
Its fair to say shes found it inspiring.
"People keep saying: Thank for coming. Im like: No, thank you for having me, she says.
Williamson (center) suffered an ACL injury in May, causing her to miss the World Cup.
Clive Rose/Getty Images
"Because even for me to listen and speak to these people, you come away and you just think: Right, how do I change the world?"
During her visit to Jordan as part of The Arsenal Foundation and Save the Children's Coaching for Life program, Williamson, the first England women's soccer star and Arsenal player, spoke at the UN. She used this platform to advocate for equal opportunities for girls to participate in sports globally. Witnessing the positive impact of soccer firsthand, such as a father changing his perspective on girls playing the sport after seeing his daughters' happiness and confidence upon returning home, further reinforced the need for providing equal opportunities for girls in sports.
Williamson recounts how the green space and soccer field created by Arsenal and Save the Children in Zaatari have profoundly transformed the lives of the children in the camp. The girls excitedly expressed to her the tremendous impact it has had on them.
They possess self-assurance, expressing their desires and assertively declining societal expectations that previously compelled them to comply.
The transformation is truly astonishing, witnessing the altered perspectives and approach of these young boys as they actively support their sisters and the community in empowering girls to realize their fullest potential.
