Goalkeeper Hampton: From cross-eyed girl to England hero

In the early morning of July 28, goalkeeper Hannah Hampton made a great contribution to the Euro 2025 championship of the England women's team after defeating Spain. To reach the glory, she had to go through a difficult journey, overcoming difficult circumstances.

Hampton's tireless efforts have been duly rewarded - Photo: REUTERS

When interviewed by a Spanish reporter after the Euro 2025 group stage match, Hannah Hampton surprised everyone with her ability to speak Spanish fluently. Few people know that her linguistic talent (she also learned sign language to communicate with her deaf cousin Ethan) is just one of many hidden layers inside the girl wearing the number 1 shirt of the England team.

Turn Disadvantages into Strengths

Hannah Hampton faced a major challenge from an early age: she was diagnosed with strabismus, and despite three surgeries before the age of three, her condition did not improve. Doctors even advised her not to play sports because even seemingly simple tasks like pouring water became difficult for her.

But Hampton refused to accept her fate. Despite early injuries caused by difficulty in judging the trajectory of the ball, she was determined to pursue her passion. "I always lived to prove people wrong," she shared.

The doctor's warning unexpectedly became the motivation for her to pursue her football dream. When her family moved to Spain at the age of 5, the door to her career opened when she was recruited by Villarreal to join their academy.

Weathering the storm to get back to the top

Hannah Hampton’s life has not been a bed of roses. Vision problems and the ups and downs of goalkeeping took their toll, especially in the early years of her career. Thrust into the spotlight from the age of 16, she found guidance from the legendary Ellen White, who helped her control her emotions and cope with the pressure.

In 2021, Hampton moved to Aston Villa and her talent was quickly recognised by manager Carla Ward. However, her international career nearly stalled in 2023 when she was dropped from the England squad due to rumours of a “bad attitude”. This incident left Hampton heartbroken and at one point considered retiring.

Fortunately, that moment became a turning point, helping her realize the great support from her loved ones.

Despite all the gossip and scrutiny from the media, Hampton has been resilient in her efforts to return to coach Sarina Wiegman's plans. She shared: "I will prove everyone wrong." Now Hampton has stood firm and affirmed her position.

Bloodshed did not discourage goalkeeper Hampton - Photo: REUTERS

Prove yourself

Not only proving her ability to those who doubted her, Hannah Hampton also focused on affirming that coach Sarina Wiegman's belief in her was correct.

Although coach Wiegman faced pressure when Hampton "usurped" the Earps, the 24-year-old goalkeeper still shone brightly, deservingly repaying the coach's absolute trust.

Hampton's brilliance in the penalty shootout helped England's women's team win Euro 2025 - Photo: REUTERS

Hampton has continued to impress on the Euro 2025 title defence, from a world-class assist in the group stage against the Netherlands to a performance of a lifetime, saving two penalties to help England overcome Sweden in the quarter-finals.

In the final against Spain, Hampton played brilliantly for 120 minutes and saved two penalties. As a result, England women's team defeated Spain 3-1 in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout in the Euro 2025 final, after the two teams drew 1-1 in dramatic 120 minutes.

This is the perfect ending for Hannah Hampton, who has been through so much ups and downs, sweat and tears.

TUAN LONG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/thu-mon-hampton-tu-co-be-mat-lac-den-nguoi-hung-tuyen-anh-20250728102125243.htm