England goalkeeper Mary Earps has announced her retirement from international football, just five weeks before the Lionesses begin their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 title defence in Switzerland. The 32-year-old, a key figure in England’s historic Euro 2022 win, leaves behind a celebrated legacy after 53 senior caps and a series of high-profile accolades.
Earps, who recently lost her starting spot to Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton, confirmed her decision in a heartfelt social media post, calling her England journey “the greatest honour and privilege” of her life. “I wish I could do it forever, but sadly all good things must come to an end,” she wrote.
A Legacy of Trophies and Leadership
During her eight-year tenure with the national team, Earps played a pivotal role in major tournaments, including England’s Euro 2022 victory and their runner-up finish at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. She also helped secure the 2023 Women’s Finalissima title.
Her individual honours include the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2023, two consecutive Best FIFA Goalkeeper awards in 2022 and 2023, and the Golden Glove for best goalkeeper at the 2023 World Cup.
“This Is the Right Time” — Earps Reflects on Exit
In her retirement message, Earps acknowledged the emotional complexity behind her decision. “This isn’t a simple goodbye – right before a major tournament – but it’s the right one,” she said. “There are so many dimensions to this decision, the details of which aren’t important right now.”
England manager Sarina Wiegman expressed disappointment, stating: “I had hoped Mary would play an important role this summer.”
Champion for Women’s Football Reform
Off the pitch, Earps has been a vocal advocate for equality and visibility in women’s football. In 2023, she publicly criticised Nike for not producing replica England goalkeeper kits during the World Cup—a move that sparked widespread debate and later policy changes.
“I left it all out there on the pitch and did my best to help systemic change. I have no regrets,” she wrote in her farewell statement.
Now playing club football with Paris Saint-Germain following her departure from Manchester United last summer, Earps says she’s ready to watch the Lionesses from the sidelines: “This is a new era and a new England team. I’m rooting for the girls to do it again this summer.”
