Mary Earps is continuing her fight against Nike for refusing to sell her Women’s World Cup replica goalkeeper shirt.
The Manchester United star voiced her upset at the beginning of the tournament over the brand, who sponsor the Lionesses, opting against the sale of her shirts, despite her teammates’ home and away jerseys being available to purchase.
Earps even went as far as offering to fund the sales herself, as she is adamant about not only England fans, but her own friends and family being able to own one.
Nike’s decision was heavily criticised from the get-go and pressure was only added to the brand as Sarina Wiegman’s side progressed through the competition, with supporters pointing out how disgraceful it was that they didn’t overturn the decision despite Earps being a World Cup finalist, who was later named Goalkeeper of the Tournament and awarded the Golden Glove.
Nike react to Earps backlash poorly
However, Nike have since doubled down on their decision with a weak statement suggesting that they’re ‘committed’ to women’s football and will work ‘towards solutions for future tournaments’.
Earps took to Instagram to react, saying: “Is this your version of an apology / taking accountability / a powerful statement of intent?”
She also shared a petition which is looking to stand ‘in support of Mary Earps and all female goalkeepers around the world’. It has amassed over 96,000 signatures since its creation on July 21. You can – and should – sign it here.
Having been named The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper, as well as reigning victorious in the Euros and Women’s Finalissima last year, Earps is viewed as one of the most influential figures in the women’s game. Nike should be held accountable for their inept decision-making and make some strategic improvements to ensure a situation like this never happens again.
