da brdice： Time Magazine has named Spain striker Jenni Hermoso among the 100 most influential people of 2024 after the kissing scandal involving Luis Rubiales.

da fezbet： Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Hermoso was kissed by Rubiales at World Cup Incident came after Spain beat England in finalStriker supported by millions after speaking outWHAT HAPPENED?

The 33-year-old was kissed on the lips by former Spanish federation chief Rubiales in the aftermath of the nation's World Cup final victory over England in Australia last year. Barcelona's former star filed a legal complaint that led to the 46-year-old's resignation and subsequent three-year ban from all football-related activity. Following a tumultuous period off the pitch, Hermoso has now received this honour.

AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Hermoso has emerged as an icon in the battle against sexism in sport and as a result features in Time Magazine's most influential people list. She earned a glowing review from fellow player and chair of the US Soccer Participant Safety Taskforce Mana Shim, who has also been a victim of sexual harassment. The 32-year-old described her as "courageous" and admits she will continue to stand behind her call for change.

WHAT JENNI HERMOSO SAID

Speaking for the first time since the incident earlier in the year, she said: "It has been a hard process, of understanding many things. I'm still playing football and the only thing I want is to continue enjoying myself wearing this shirt."

GettyWHAT NEXT FOR HERMOSO AND SPAIN?

After beating France in the inaugural Women's Nations League final in February, Spain are preparing for the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Hermoso played a key part in helping her country reach their first-ever tournament and will be hoping to claim gold to cap off a successful year on the international stage.