England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton has bravely opened up about her mental health struggles and her inspiring return to the Lionesses squad. The 23-year-old, who plays for Chelsea, revealed the personal challenges she faced during her absence from international duty.
Hampton credited England manager Sarina Wiegman for her unwavering support during this difficult period. "The manager has been brilliant with me," Hampton shared. "She's shown real understanding and given me the time I needed to focus on my wellbeing."
The talented shot-stopper's return to the national team setup comes as England prepare for their crucial Euro 2025 qualifier against France. Hampton's comeback story serves as an important reminder about the pressures faced by elite athletes and the growing awareness of mental health in professional sports.
Teammate Chloe Kelly expressed her delight at Hampton's return, stating: "We're all so proud of Hannah. Her strength and honesty are inspiring to all of us in the squad."
Hampton's journey highlights the changing attitudes in women's football, where players are increasingly supported in addressing mental health concerns alongside physical fitness. The Football Association has implemented several wellbeing initiatives in recent years to support players at all levels of the game.
