MADRID — Testimonies from teammates of Jenni Hermoso at the trial of former Spanish soccer federation president Luis Rubiales revealed the profound emotional impact his unsolicited kiss had on the player, underscoring claims of coercion to downplay the incident. This trial is at the heart of a national conversation about sexism in sports.

During court proceedings, Hermoso’s brother, Rafael, shared that he was approached by former national coach Jorge Vilda, who asked him to persuade his sister to record a video minimizing the incident. Rafael Hermoso stated, “Jenni came to us half-crying... They were pressuring her to take a stance downplaying the kiss,” highlighting the intense pressure placed on her after the 2023 Women's World Cup award ceremony in Sydney where Rubiales kissed her according to AP News.

From the witness stand, teammates Alexia Putellas, Irene Paredes, and Laia Codina described how Hermoso’s joy was overshadowed by the fallout from Rubiales' actions. Putellas recounted witnessing Hermoso's emotional distress as she cried from exhaustion on the plane back to Spain, stating, “She was overwhelmed and told us they wouldn’t leave her alone” AP News reported.

Paredes supported Hermoso’s account that she felt compelled to maintain silence under duress from federation officials who insisted that Hermoso publicly support Rubiales. “She was worried, she was upset,” Paredes said. “She cried as she told us what was happening because it was becoming too much for her” reported Reuters.

Court testimony indicated that Rubiales has continuously denied any wrongdoing and claims that Hermoso consented to the kiss. However, Hermoso articulated her distress over the incident, stating that she felt “disrespected as a woman” and that “a kiss on the lips is only given when I decide so” during her previous testimony as highlighted by BBC News.

The accusations against Rubiales, who resigned from his position under pressure and faced a three-year FIFA ban, include sexual assault and coercion, with prosecutors seeking an imprisonment of two and a half years. His fellow defendants, including former federation officials, are similarly being charged for their roles in the alleged pressure exerted on Hermoso.

The trial continues, reflecting a watershed moment for gender equality and accountability in sports as the court revisits the challenges faced by women athletes and the systemic issues within sporting federations.

For ongoing coverage of this trial, visit the original articles on AP News, Reuters, and BBC.