England goalkeeper Mary Earps made history as the first professional female footballer to have a wax figure at Madame Tussauds London. The 31-year-old’s inclusion in the famous wax museum came after members of the public voted for her following the Lionesses’ success in reaching the final of the 2023 World Cup and winning the 2022 European Championships. Earps, who served as vice-captain at the World Cup and received the Golden Glove award for best goalkeeper of the tournament, expressed her excitement at being recognized in this unique way.
“It’s a great feeling to be a trailblazer,” Earps shared. “I’m a very ambitious and hard-working person, and to be able to push boundaries and be a pioneer for change means a lot to me. Hopefully, I can continue to do so throughout my career.”
The creative process of creating her wax figure was a collaborative effort, with Earps actively involved in the development. Madame Tussauds shared that Earps “got stuck in with the creative process,” underscoring her commitment to excellence both on and off the pitch. The goalkeeper’s waxwork will be on display at Madame Tussauds London starting in the autumn, and she is eagerly anticipating the moment when her family, especially her grandmother, sees it for the first time.
“It will be a special moment for my gran to see the wax figure. I’m not sure how she’ll feel about there being two of me in the world, but we’re about to find out,” Earps joked.
Earps recently made a move to Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer after departing from Manchester United, where she had spent five years with the club. Reflecting on the public’s vote for her wax figure, Earps remarked, “It’s a bizarre one,” but she hopes that her teammates will also be honored with their own wax figures at Madame Tussauds in the near future.
“As Lionesses, we strive to inspire people of all ages and genders. This recognition is another way for us to break barriers and push boundaries,” Earps emphasized.
The goalkeeper’s achievements extend beyond her wax figure at Madame Tussauds. In 2023, she was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year and received an MBE for her contributions to football in May. Earps’ impressive career includes stints with Leicester, Nottingham Forest, Doncaster Rovers, Birmingham City, Bristol Academy, Reading, and Wolfsburg.
Jo Kinsey, the studio manager at Madame Tussauds, praised Earps for her dedication to excellence, stating, “Mary Earps is a superstar who commits to excellence both on and off the pitch. From winning the nation’s heart to winning the nation’s vote, it was truly delightful having the opportunity to work with her for her first ever figure. Mary really got stuck in with the creative process, even helping with carving out the clay in the initial stages.”
Earps’ journey to becoming the first female football star with a Madame Tussauds waxwork symbolizes the progress and recognition of women’s football on a global scale. As the sport continues to grow in popularity and visibility, Earps stands as a role model for aspiring athletes and advocates for gender equality in sports.
Breaking Barriers in Women’s Football
Earps’ groundbreaking achievement at Madame Tussauds reflects the increasing recognition and respect for women’s football worldwide. The inclusion of a female footballer alongside renowned male athletes in the wax museum signifies a shift towards gender equality in the sports industry. As more opportunities and platforms are created for women in football, athletes like Earps pave the way for future generations to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
The success of the Lionesses in major tournaments like the World Cup and European Championships has raised the profile of women’s football and highlighted the talent and dedication of female players. Earps’ journey from playing for various clubs to representing her country at the highest level exemplifies the resilience and determination required to succeed in a male-dominated field. By breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes, Earps and her teammates inspire fans and aspiring athletes to believe in their abilities and pursue their passion for the game.
Inspiring Future Generations
Earps’ impact goes beyond her accomplishments on the pitch; she serves as a role model for young girls and boys who aspire to excel in football. Her dedication to pushing boundaries and promoting inclusivity in the sport sets an example for the next generation of athletes to believe in themselves and strive for greatness. Through her actions on and off the field, Earps encourages others to challenge norms and embrace diversity in sports.
As women’s football continues to gain momentum and recognition, the representation of female athletes like Earps in prominent institutions like Madame Tussauds sends a powerful message of empowerment and equality. By celebrating the achievements of women in sports, society acknowledges the talent and hard work of female athletes and advocates for greater opportunities and support for women’s football. Earps’ wax figure serves as a symbol of progress and a reminder of the importance of gender diversity in the sporting world.
Empowering Women in Sports
Earps’ journey to becoming the first female football star with a Madame Tussauds waxwork exemplifies the resilience and determination required to succeed in a male-dominated industry. As she continues to break barriers and challenge stereotypes, Earps inspires women and girls around the world to pursue their passions and strive for excellence in sports. Her recognition at Madame Tussauds symbolizes the progress and recognition of women’s football on a global scale and underscores the importance of gender equality in sports.
The inclusion of female athletes like Earps in prestigious institutions and events not only celebrates their achievements but also highlights the need for greater representation and support for women in sports. By honoring the talent and dedication of female footballers, society acknowledges the contributions of women to the sporting world and encourages future generations to pursue their dreams without limitations. Earps’ wax figure at Madame Tussauds stands as a testament to her success and a beacon of hope for aspiring female athletes everywhere.