Olga Carmona, whose goal won the FIFA Women’s World Cup for Spain on Sunday, learned after the final of her father’s death, the Spanish soccer federation said.
He had been ill and died while Carmona’s mother and other relatives travelled to Australia to watch her play in the final, the federation said early Monday, without giving more detail on the cause of death.
The family decided to wait until after the title celebrations to give Carmona the news.
“And, without knowing it, I had my Star before the game started,” Carmona said on X, formerly known as Twitter, along with a photo of her kissing the winners’ medal. “I know that you gave me the strength to achieve something unique. I know that you were watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace, Dad.” On Monday, Carmona wrote again on X to thank people for their kindness and say she’ll attend the victory ceremony. “Yesterday was the best and worst day of my life. I know that you would want to see me enjoying this historic moment, so that’s why I’ll be with my teammates so that from where you are you know that this star is also yours, Dad.”
Before the news of the death of Carmona’s father, the federation said the title celebrations will take place after the squad’s arrival in Madrid on Monday night.