Not many sporting achievements have captured the nation quite like the England women’s historic Euro 2022 win. From congratulations from the Queen to a record crowd of 87,192 roaring them to victory at Wembley Stadium, the team has inspired women and girls around the UK tenfold.
And as we arrive at our exclusive shoot to catch up with three members of the England squad – Lucy Bronze, Ellen White and Keira Walsh – it’s clear that the achievement still hasn’t sunk in. “It’s a blur,” says Manchester City player Keira, 25. “It still doesn’t feel real.” Ellen, 33, who also plays for Man City, adds, “My husband keeps walking around the house with my medal saying, ‘Put it on, put it on.’ He’s very proud.” And the trio all have their gold medal in tow as they get glammed up for our shoot and reflect on their recent success, which saw a further 17.4 million people watching at home, making it the most viewed women’s football game in the UK. “Things like this are something we’re getting a bit more used to.
It’s nice,” says Lucy, 30, of her first OK! shoot. “I don’t think we’ll ever get used to kicking a ball in heels and a dress though!” she adds with a laugh.
Of course the road to get here wasn’t easy, and the sporting stars say there have been plenty of challenges along the way, including sexism and having to work a second job alongside their training to support themselves financially.
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