Mary Earps has become an enduring symbol of excellence, resilience, and progress in women’s football. Renowned for her transformative impact on the position of goalkeeper, she is celebrated as both a technical pioneer and an outspoken advocate for equality and representation within sport. This in-depth article draws upon trusted references to present a comprehensive portrait of Earps, her personal journey, footballing legacy, income and public perception, controversies, and the latest news, with answers to key questions fans want to know.
Early Life, Family, and Foundations
Mary Alexandra Earps was born on March 7, 1993, in West Bridgford, Nottingham, England. Growing up with her siblings, Joel and Annabelle, Earps benefited from a tight-knit, supportive family. Her father, David, was a food industry director; her mother, Julie, managed a telemarketing enterprise; both contributed practical insights, encouragement and a drive for success that profoundly shaped Mary’s development. Her dad, in particular, challenged her to adopt goalkeeping skills that set her apart from her peers.
Mary Earps’ love of football blossomed early, nurtured in her hometown and progressing through local club West Bridgford Colts before gaining attention in the Nottinghamshire FA system. Combining natural instincts, tenacity, and early exposure to competitive play, she displayed the discipline and dedication that would prove essential throughout her career.
Key Facts Table
Academic Pursuits and Athletic Development
Mary Earps attended local Nottingham schools and went on to study at Loughborough University, graduating with a degree in information management and business studies. During this time, she furthered her sporting potential by playing college soccer in Indiana, USA, an experience that expanded her tactical knowledge and adaptability, though her most rapid growth came within the English club system.
Club Career: From £25-a-Game to International Fame
Mary’s professional journey began at Leicester City in 2009, still a teenager. Over the years, she played for eight major clubs:
- Leicester City
- Nottingham Forest
- Doncaster Rovers Belles
- Birmingham City
- Bristol Academy
- Reading
- Manchester United
- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
Her debut in the Women’s Super League came in 2011, earning just £25 per fixture, a vivid reflection of the amateur era before the rapid ascent of women’s football. She established herself at Doncaster and Bristol, but her career reached a new level at Manchester United, where she set records, won FA Cup honours, and gained international attention. In 2024, Earps joined PSG as their first-choice goalkeeper, continuing her legacy on the European stage.
International Career: Lioness Legend
Mary Earps earned her first England cap on June 10, 2017, becoming an integral part of the national team. Her journey was marked by competition against established keepers such as Karen Bardsley and Carly Telford, and later by rivalry with rising star Ellie Roebuck. After overcoming a period of self-doubt and uncertainty in 2021, Earps recommitted to football, reinvigorated by new opportunities and a supportive squad under manager Sarina Wiegman.
Earps’ crowning achievements in international play include:
- UEFA Women’s EURO 2022: Helped secure England’s historic win with critical saves (started all six matches), named the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper.
- FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023: Played every minute, famously saved Jenni Hermoso’s penalty in the final, and won the Golden Glove as best goalkeeper of the tournament.
- Finalissima 2023: Played a pivotal role as England won the inaugural women’s title.
- BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2023: Recognised for both her sporting excellence and role model status.
In total, Mary Earps earned 53 senior caps and completed 26 clean sheets for England before her emotional retirement in May 2025, just weeks ahead of Euro 2025.
Leadership, Adversity, and Retirement
Known for her vocal presence and ability to bind squads together, Earps was recognised as a glue player, someone whose positivity and focus uplifted her team. In 2025, her career took another dramatic turn: having lost her England No. 1 spot to Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton, Earps chose to retire from international football just before Euro 2025. She explained her choice as bittersweet, but ultimately right, making way for a new generation after experiencing both highs (Euro glory, World Cup finals) and lows (periods out of favour).
Her departure was strongly felt, teammates and coaches expressed admiration and regret, especially given Earps’ impact on and off the pitch. Captain Leah Williamson described her loss as “devastating,” while manager Sarina Wiegman called their shared journey “emotional and unforgettable”.
Despite the shock, Mary Earps continued her club career at PSG and moved into media roles and advocacy, carrying her forward as a major voice in sport.
Net Worth, Income and Brand Ambassadorship
In the space of fifteen years, Mary Earps’ financial standing has soared; she is now regarded as one of the highest-earning female footballers globally:
- Net worth estimates range between $3 million USD and £4 million GBP as of 2025.
- Monthly earnings in 2025 are reported to exceed £800,000 from club contracts, endorsements, and speaking engagements.
- She is a brand ambassador for Reusch (gloves), has her own clothing line, MAE27, and endorses a range of sports-related products.
The dramatic increase in women’s football pay is mirrored in Earps’ career progression and willingness to challenge historic inequalities, both financial and cultural.
Personal Life: Privacy and Entrepreneurship
Earps keeps her private life outside the spotlight; as of 2025, she is reportedly single, focused on her sporting career and business interests. She has built an entrepreneurial brand in addition to her football activities, managing her time between high-level sport and commercial ventures.
Controversies and Advocacy
Nike Shirt Controversy
A defining controversy occurred during the 2023 World Cup: Nike chose not to produce replica England goalkeeper shirts with Earp’s name, despite her status as the world’s best at the time. The move sparked widespread criticism and a passionate campaign (including petitions and celebrity support), leading Nike to reverse course and release the shirts, which immediately sold out. Earps used her platform to advocate for representation and highlight commercial barriers faced by female athletes.
Celebration Backlash
Earps faced backlash for her exuberant celebrations after a key World Cup penalty save, with critics calling them “unprofessional”; others viewed these displays as empowering and indicative of her passion. The controversy ignited debate about gender norms and expectations in women’s sport.
Retirement Criticism
Her retirement from international football was met with mixed reactions, with some media and fans arguing the decision was premature. Earps herself stated she felt “villainised” by certain corners of the press and sports community. Nonetheless, she maintained her belief in the necessity of paving the way for younger talent and insisted she would continue advocating for the game.
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Mary Earps extends far beyond match statistics. She has redefined the standards for women’s goalkeeping, serving as a technical role model and active advocate. With her achievements, vulnerability, and willingness to challenge norms, she has inspired countless young athletes, dismantling outdated perceptions and creating pathways for women’s representation in sport.
Earps’ leadership, especially in transformative tournaments (Euro 2022, World Cup 2023), is credited with increasing the visibility and respect afforded to goalkeepers, changing the landscape of women’s football in the UK and internationally.
Latest News and Ongoing Involvement
- Retired from England international duty in 2025 with 53 caps, 26 clean sheets.
- Ongoing club career with Paris Saint-Germain, aiming for more trophies in France.
- Focused on advocacy, entrepreneurship (MAE27) and charitable media work, including TV coverage for Soccer Aid in June 2025.
- Active in supporting visibility and commercial equality for women’s football and women’s goalkeepers.
FAQs About Mary Earps
Which clubs has Mary Earps played for?
Mary Earps has played for Leicester City, Doncaster Rovers Belles, Bristol Academy, Reading, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain. Her club career also included spells at Nottingham Forest and Birmingham City.
How many England caps does she have, and what are her international highlights?
Earps earned 53 senior caps, recording 26 clean sheets. Her international highlights include the Euro 2022 title win, World Cup 2023 final appearance and the Golden Glove award.
Why did Mary Earps retire from international football in 2025?
Earps retired to allow the next generation to thrive after England coach Sarina Wiegman named Hannah Hampton the No. 1 goalkeeper for Euro 2025, and Earps decided not to travel as a backup.
What is her net worth and primary sources of income?
Mary Earps’ net worth is estimated between $3 million USD and £4 million GBP, with major income from PSG contracts, endorsements (including Reusch), personal brand MAE27, and speaking events.
Has Mary Earps faced any major controversies?
Earps was involved in the 2023 Nike shirt controversy, faced criticism for exuberant goal celebrations, and experienced media scrutiny surrounding her retirement, often responding with advocacy and empowerment.
Is Mary Earps married or in a relationship?
There is no public information confirming Mary Earps is married or in a relationship; she maintains a private personal life and is reportedly single as of 2025.
What honours has Mary Earps received?
Major honours include two Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper Awards, the Golden Glove (World Cup 2023), UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 Champion, England Player of the Year 2023, BBC Sports Personality of the Year, and an MBE for services to football.
What is Mary Earps’ legacy for young goalkeepers?
Earps revolutionised the perception of women’s goalkeeping, inspiring boys and girls to take up the position, mentoring young players and advocating for better commercial representation.
What does she do outside football?
Beyond the pitch, Earps runs her MAE27 clothing line, serves as an ambassador for sports brands, participates in charity initiatives, and contributes to sports media coverage.
How did teammates and coaches react to her retirement?
England teammates and coach Sarina Wiegman publicly praised Earps for her leadership, professionalism, and friendship and said her absence would be deeply felt.
