Lioness legend Mary Earps pays tribute to long-term girlfriend Kitty as she reveals mental health battles
BRAVE Mary Earps is poised to release her “inspirational” autobiography in which she discusses her mental health battles – and will pay tribute to her partner.
The Euros-winning Lioness, 32, will broach her sexuality for the first time to help anyone who may be struggling with their identity.
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England legend Mary Earps speaks about her mental health struggles in her new bookCredit: PA
The former Lioness keeper is one of the biggest stars in the women’s gameCredit: Getty
In it, she praises her girlfriend, Kitty, thanking her publicly for helping her deal with the pressures of fame.
Tonight, Mary said: “I’ve always tried to keep my personal life separate from my professional one, but it would have felt inauthentic not to include something so important to me in this book.
“I’m in a really happy relationship. The people closest to me have always known, and I feel ready and happy to share that with everyone now.”
A source close to the hugely popular star says: “Mary’s achieved so much on the pitch, but what makes her story so special is how she’s grown off it too.
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“She’s been through some tough times and she’s incredibly open about that in her new book.
“Her relationship has been such a positive force. It’s brought her happiness and balance. You can really see how happy she is now. It’s lovely to see her in such a good place.
“She’s always valued her privacy and has kept her personal and professional worlds quite separate, but she’s surrounded by amazing people now, teammates and even the Lionesses, who’ve given her so much love and support.
“She doesn’t feel the need to label her sexuality, she’s just found love with someone wonderful, and they’re building a life together. That’s what matters to her.
“Mary’s been a bit nervous about how people might react, but everyone close to her has reminded her that the public already love her for who she is and they’ll only admire her more for being open and authentic. This will make her an even stronger role model for young women and girls everywhere.”
The star has been open with friends and family, and has had huge support from her Lionesses teammates, especially Alessia Russo and Ella Toone, who were instrumental in backing her decision to retire from international football.
The book, All In: Football, Life and Learning to be Unapologetically Me is already flying up the pre-order sales chart. It is due for release on November 9th.
The star, who famously went to war with Nike over their controversial decision not to release her No. 1 shirt – forcing the company into an unprecedented U-turn – was awarded an MBE last May.
She also won the Golden Glove award following her heroic performances at the Euros.
The sportswoman currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain having left on a free transfer from Manchester United. She is reportedly the highest paid female goalkeeper in the world.
Sarah Garrett MBE, and founder of the British LGBT Awards, said: “Mary Earps’ courage in sharing her truth is inspiring. By being open about her relationship, she is not only celebrating who she is, but also showing women and girls everywhere that it’s okay to live authentically.
“Her bravery on and off the pitch makes her a powerful role model. We’re proud to see her being true to herself in such a public and positive way. She is inspirational.”
Mary’s book is already surging up the pre-order list ahead of its releaseCredit: Supplied
