Defender Jess Carter will not participate in the open‑top bus trophy parade or Downing Street celebrations in London. And here is why:
- Carter had to fly back to the U.S. immediately after the final to rejoin her club side Gotham FC, which did not grant her extra leave beyond her NWSL commitments. Unlike most of the European leagues, the NWSL is played from March to November.
- Despite other U.S.-based England players - Esme Morgan and Anna Moorhouse - being allowed to stay for festivities, Carter was obliged to return for an upcoming weekend match against the Chicago Stars.
- Carter faced sustained online racist abuse, stepped away from social media, and overcame intense scrutiny but played a vital role in the final against Spain, earning widespread praise for her resilience.
- Carter’s absence from the parade deepened appreciation for her on-field heroism and the personal challenges she overcame during the tournament.
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