Mary Earps Retires: Who Can Fill the Lionesses' Biggest Gloves?

England's star goalkeeper Mary Earps has stunned fans by announcing her immediate retirement from international football, leaving a giant gap in goal just weeks before the Lionesses defend their European title.

Her decision marks the end of a defining era and raises a crucial question: who can possibly fill the gloves of one of the game's greatest shot-stoppers?

Earps' retirement comes as she shares her remarkable story in a powerful new BBC documentary, Mary Earps: The Lioness, the Gloves and the Glory.

The film offers unprecedented insight into her rise from part-time jobs to global acclaim, her near-quit moment after being dropped in 2020, and her triumphant return to lead England to Euro 2022 glory and a World Cup final in 2023.

According to The Guardian, Earps confirmed her decision just 36 days before the 2025 European Championship in Switzerland, surprising fans and teammates alike. She had already shared her plans privately with head coach Sarina Wiegman during England's last camp in April.

'I have taken the difficult decision to retire internationally,' said Earps, adding, 'I've spent a long time making this decision and it's not one I've made lightly. For me, ultimately, this is the right time for me to step aside and allow the younger generation to thrive.'

Earps said winning the 2022 Euros was the best day of her life and that she'll be rooting for the Lionesses this coming summer.

The timing of her announcement alongside the BBC documentary underscores her impact both on and off the pitch. In her own words, Earps reflects on the challenges of playing in an era before the women's game turned professional, her fight to be heard, and her role in transforming the perception of goalkeepers worldwide.

Mary Earps' Football Career

Earps began playing football at the age of eight. In 2017, she made her WSL debut for Doncaster. Four years later, she became England's first-choice goalkeeper, aligning with Wiegman's arrival as manager.

At Euro 2022, Earps played every match, helping England secure its first major trophy in more than 50 years.

During the 2023 Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, Earps served as England's vice-captain. Despite England's 1-0 loss to Spain in the final, Earps shone throughout the tournament, earning the Golden Glove and showcasing her ability to perform under immense pressure.

Her achievements in 2023 included being named England Women's Player of the Year, BBC Women's Footballer of the Year and BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

In May 2024, she was appointed MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to football. The Prince of Wales presented the award to her at Windsor Castle.

Off the pitch, Earps used her growing platform to secure a major victory: convincing Nike to reverse its decision not to sell her replica goalkeeper shirt, a move that sparked widespread support and underlined her influence beyond football.

About Mary Earps: Family, Love Life, and More

Loving, Supportive Family

Mary Earps was born in Nottingham. She credits her brother and father with igniting her passion for football. With her parents' unwavering support, she found her path to becoming a professional goalkeeper.

She has repeatedly thanked her family for keeping her grounded, and their close relationship was evident when they were the first to hear of her FIFA Best Award nomination.

Before Her Football Career

Before reaching football stardom, Earps worked part-time jobs, including at a toy shop and a cinema, and coached football to help fund her training with Doncaster Belles.

Mary's Personal and Love Life

According to Mirror, Earps enjoys travelling and spending time with her family. Her Instagram documents her trips in Berlin, Australia, Dubai, and beyond.

When it comes to romantic love, the football athlete prefers to keep it private. She has not publicly discussed whether she is dating or in a relationship. As of writing, it is still unknown if Earps is single or partnered.

Earps' Net Worth

As a professional football goalkeeper, Mary Earps is estimated to be earning around £318,000 per year, with a net worth estimated to be around £4 million. However, no official data confirms her real net worth.