Unwanted Affection: Spain's Football Federation President Kisses Jenni Hermoso on the Lips, Elicits Discomfort

Spain's football federation president, Luis Rubiales, found himself at the center of a social media storm due to his recent actions, which received a swift and critical response from Jenni Hermoso.

Jenni Hermoso, a prominent midfielder for Spain, has recounted her discomfort after an incident where she was unexpectedly kissed on the lips by Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish football federation, following their victory in the World Cup final in Sydney.

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As Hermoso, a seasoned 33-year-old player who missed a second-half penalty against Mary Earps, headed to the podium to receive her well-deserved winner's medal from Fifa president Gianni Infantino, Rubiales, aged 45, embraced her and lifted her off the ground. A brief exchange occurred before Rubiales placed his hands on Hermoso's back and initiated the unexpected kiss on her lips.

Rubiales, a former defender with stints at Levante, Alicante, and Hamilton Adademical, and affectionately known as Pundonor (Courage), triggered outrage on various social media platforms due to his actions. This incident also prompted a pointed reaction from Hermoso.

When asked about the incident by Spanish TV network La 1, Hermoso responded, "Yeah, I did not enjoy that."

This incident marked yet another instance of tension between the team and the Spanish football administration.

Jenni Hermoso missed a penalty but got her hands on the trophy in Sydney

Jorge Vilda's position as coach came under scrutiny last year when 15 national team players sent letters to the Spanish federation, stating their refusal to represent their country as long as he remained in his position. Their grievances encompassed training methods, player treatment, and inadequate facilities.

Rubiales supported Vilda's stance, reintegrating three of the dissenting players into the World Cup squad while sidelining the rest.

Rubiales hinted that he felt vindicated by the outcome on Sunday.

"It's often said that recognizing an achievement like this takes time, but I am well aware," he commented.

"We've put in a lot of hard work, even when there were those who tried to impede our efforts. I believe that in Spain, we need to learn to appreciate the positive aspects, to allow individuals to perform their duties.

"That small minority of people who harbored constant frustration and resentment should come to understand that allowing others to work is essential."

Luis Rubiales Faces Potential 30-Month Jail Sentence for Jenni Hermoso Kiss

The trial concerning the nonconsensual kiss involving Luis Rubiales has not commenced at this time.