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Fans, politicians and celebrity supporters have shared their disappointment after the Lionesses failed to secure the World Cup title, being beaten by Spain in the final.
If they had emerged victorious, it would have been England’s first senior team World Cup win since 1966.
Despite the nation’s heavy heart over the loss, many were quick to acknowledge the important part the team has played in raising the profile of women’s football, becoming role models to youngsters around the country, and household names in the process.
Following the match, the Lionesses wrote on their official social media channels: “Our @FIFAWWC dream comes to an end at the final hurdle.”
Moments after their Women’s World Cup defeat, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “You left absolutely nothing out there @Lionesses. It wasn’t to be, but you’ve already secured your legacy as game changers. We are all incredibly proud of you.”
Some were quick to point out his Freudian slip, suggesting he may have got his words a little mixed up, possibly meaning the players left “everything” out there, rather than “nothing”.
Labour leader Keir Starmer wrote: “Heartbreaking. So proud of the England team who inspired the whole country. This is just the beginning for the @Lionesses”.
Read more: Live reaction to England’s World Cup defeat
While King Charles is not believed to have watched the match (he was spotted heading to church at Crathie Kirk in Balmoral around half an hour after kick-off) he did share a message of commiseration with the Lionesses.
The King wrote: “While I know how sore it must be, let none of you feel defeated, for to have reached the final at all is an immense tribute to your skill, determination and team spirit in the finest sporting tradition. More than that, though, it will serve as an inspiration for generations to come – and, for that, your place in the history books is assured.”
Meanwhile, the Prince of Wales – who got some flack over his decision not to attend the match in person – wrote on his official account, shared with the Princess of Wales: “Although it’s the result none of us wanted, @Lionesses you have done yourselves and this nation proud.
“Your spirit & drive have inspired so many people and paved the way for generations to come. Thank you for the footballing memories.”
Showing good sportsmanship worthy of his position, William added: “Congratulations to Spain. W.”
William and Kate, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, watched the final together at home in Sandringham, Norfolk, according to Kensington Palace.
Carol Vorderman has thanked the Lionesses for giving women “such hope for the future” due to their World Cup run.
The former Countdown star congratulated Spain on their win, but went on to thank England for all they’ve “done for women in the UK”.
“I know it won’t feel like it now, but from an old bird whose early dreams were stopped by the ‘system’, you have given us such hope for the future (long after I’ve gone). Thank you,” she said.
Presenter Rylan Clark, who found fame on The X Factor in 2012, tweeted: “The @Lionesses keeping it going right to the last seconds. We’re all proud of ya!!!!”
While The Apprentice boss and entrepreneur Lord Alan Sugar, 76, tweeted: “Unlucky ladies you gave your all. You did so well to get to the final of the world cup @Lionesses.”
Former Dragons’ Den star, Theo Paphitis, said the Lionesses “played with guts and did us proud”.
The 63-year-old added: “Not their day in the final result but a great tournament for them regardless.”
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who was there in person for the match, wrote: “Gutted for the team. The @Lionesses can hold their heads high.
“They worked so hard all tournament & they’ve inspired countless people across the country & world, particularly young women & girls. The team have done their country proud.”
Former England striker Gary Lineker said Spain were the better team in the final but added the Lionesses “gave their all”.
He tweeted: “Gutted for the Lionesses who gave their all, but congratulations to Spain on winning the World Cup.
“They were the better team and thoroughly deserved their victory.”
And British writer and comedian Mark Steel rounded up the disappointment with a joke, writing on X: “Now, to prove England’s women have achieved equality with men, they should all trash the local tapas bar.”
Steel later added: “Spain deserved it. England were brilliant for most of the World Cup. Earps was amazing in goal. Now every team should copy Spain, and have an acrimonious split a week before a tournament.”
