Mary Earps: The Lioness Who Redefined Goalkeeping and Inspired Millions
Mary Earps is one of the most influential goalkeepers in women’s football history. From nearly quitting the sport to winning the FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Glove, a UEFA Euro 2022 title, and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year, Earps has built a legacy defined by resilience, skill, and leadership. Now representing Paris Saint-Germain and retired from international duty, she continues to inspire athletes worldwide.
Early Life: Nottingham Roots and a Passion for Goalkeeping
Mary Alexandra Earps was born on 7 March 1993 in Nottingham, England, and grew up in West Bridgford. She began playing football at age 10 with West Bridgford Colts, quickly showing a natural talent as a goalkeeper.
Her youth career included stints at Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur, where she honed her skills and developed a competitive edge. Balancing academics and sport, Earps earned a degree in Information Management and Business Studies from Loughborough University, while also helping Team Great Britain win gold at the 2013 Summer Universiade in Russia.
Club Career: From England to Europe’s Elite
Early Career: Building Experience Across England
Earps’ professional journey was diverse, featuring spells with Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, Doncaster Rovers Belles, Coventry City, Birmingham City, Bristol Academy, and Reading. Her consistent performances at Reading in 2016 earned her a spot in the PFA Team of the Year, marking her emergence as a top talent.
VfL Wolfsburg: A Taste of European Glory
In 2018, Earps signed with VfL Wolfsburg, winning a domestic double. Limited playing time prompted her return to England, seeking a platform to showcase her talent fully.
Manchester United: Emergence as a Superstar
Earps joined Manchester United in July 2019, becoming the club’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. Highlights of her tenure include:
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14 league clean sheets in 2022–23, winning the WSL Golden Glove
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Playing a key role in Manchester United’s 2024 FA Cup victory
By leaving United in June 2024, Earps had made 102 appearances, cementing her status as one of the WSL’s top goalkeepers.
Paris Saint-Germain: A New Chapter
In July 2024, Earps signed with Paris Saint-Germain, helping the team compete in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. She remains a key figure in the squad, demonstrating leadership and elite goalkeeping skills.
International Career: Heroics with the Lionesses
Earps’ journey with England is a story of patience, resilience, and ultimate triumph. Despite her first senior cap in 2017, she spent years as an understudy, even contemplating quitting football.
UEFA Euro 2022: England’s Historic Triumph
Under manager Sarina Wiegman in 2021, Earps became England’s first-choice goalkeeper, keeping four clean sheets in six games during UEFA Euro 2022 and helping the Lionesses lift their first major trophy on home soil.
2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Legendary Performances
Earps served as vice-captain in Australia, saving a crucial penalty in the final against Spain. Despite England finishing runners-up, Earps was awarded the Golden Glove, solidifying her status as one of the world’s best.
Retirement from International Football
In May 2025, Earps retired from international football after 53 caps, stepping aside to allow the next generation to thrive.
Personal Life: Living Authentically
In November 2025, Earps publicly came out as queer in her memoir, All In: Football, Life and Learning to be Unapologetically Me. She shares her life with her girlfriend, Kitty, highlighting the importance of authenticity and mental health.
Earps is also an entrepreneur, launching her MAE27 clothing brand, and advocating for women’s football through her famous campaign against Nike for replica goalkeeper shirts during the 2023 World Cup.
Achievements and Legacy
Mary Earps’ impact on football is unparalleled:
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FIFA Women’s World Cup Golden Glove 2023
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BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2023
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WSL Golden Glove 2022–23
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Advocate for equality, authenticity, and women’s football
From Nottingham to Paris, Earps has redefined goalkeeping, inspiring millions and leaving a lasting legacy in women’s football.
FAQs
Q1: Who is Mary Earps?
Mary Earps is an English goalkeeper for Paris Saint-Germain, a UEFA Euro 2022 champion, and a FIFA Golden Glove winner.
Q2: How many caps does Mary Earps have for England?
Earps earned 53 caps before retiring from international football in 2025.
Q3: Which clubs has Mary Earps played for?
She has played for Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, Doncaster Rovers Belles, Coventry City, Birmingham City, Bristol Academy, Reading, VfL Wolfsburg, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Q4: What are Mary Earps’ major achievements?
UEFA Euro 2022 winner, FIFA Golden Glove 2023, BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2023, WSL Golden Glove 2022–23.
Q5: Is Mary Earps married?
No, she is in a relationship with her girlfriend, Kitty, and publicly came out in 2025.
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