Luis Rubiales, the country's football federation president, kissed striker Jenni Hermoso on the lips. This kiss was claimed to be consensual by Rubiales, but Hermoso disagreed, claiming it was not consented. This initiated a storm of criticism, leading to widespread protests and a court case that found him guilty of sexual assault. The incident stained what should have been one of the happiest days for Hermoso, prompting her and other players to boycott playing for Spain until substantial changes were made.