England goalkeeper Mary Earps has announced her shock retirement from international football – just five weeks before the Lionesses begin their European Championship defence in Switzerland.
The 32-year-old made 53 senior appearances over eight years for England, playing a significant role in the Lionesses winning Euro 2022 and reaching the final of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
She recently lost her international starting place to Hannah Hampton and will now not take part in Euro 2025, despite England manager Sarina Wiegman wanting her as part of her squad.
“This is the right time for me to step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive,” Earps said.
“Winning the Euros in 2022 was the best day of my life, and I’m rooting for the girls to do it again this summer.”
She also wrote on social media: “It has been the greatest honour and privilege of my life, to wear this badge and represent my country.
“I wish I could do it forever, but sadly all good things must come to an end.
Earps won the Best Fifa Goalkeeper award in 2022 and 2023.
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