A lasting impression from this year’s sporting events is the victorious celebration of Chloe Kelly, a key player for the Lionesses, after the Euros.
She jubilantly exclaimed, “It felt so amazing the first time, we simply had to experience it again,” while proudly displaying her second Euros medal to the cameras.
Notably, the Arsenal forward delivered the crucial blow against the Lionesses’ rivals for the second occasion, following up her Euro 2022 final extra-time winning goal against Germany with the decisive penalty in the Euro 2025 shootout against Spain.
Why Chloe Kelly can handle mainstream fame
Since that defining moment, Kelly has captured the attention of the general public, establishing herself as one of England’s most recognized football players. Her England jersey has become a sought-after item, and she emerged as an early frontrunner for this year’s Sports Personality of the Year award, following in the footsteps of Beth Mead, who secured the accolade after Euro 2022, and Mary Earps, the recipient after the 2023 World Cup.
Although golfer Rory McIlroy achieved victory at the Masters following over a decade of attempts, and Lando Norris still has the potential to conclude 2025 as the Formula 1 world champion, while Luke Littler rose to prominence as a global darts sensation at the age of 17, all have been surpassed by Kelly in the odds, underscoring the inspirational nature of her performance in Switzerland.
Her name has also been mentioned among potential contenders for September’s Ballon d’Or Feminin, alongside other prominent players such as Mariona Caldentey, Alexia Putellas, Aitana Bonmati, and Alessia Russo.
“It’s essential to capitalize on opportunities while the spotlight shines brightly, and I believe she will do just that,” commented pundit Lucy Ward to FourFourTwo.
“She needs to leverage this moment – as all players should when they have marketability. Moreover, she is surrounded by individuals who will ensure that this fame doesn’t negatively impact her performance on the field.”
“Arsenal has made strategic acquisitions, indicating their ambition to dethrone Chelsea from the top of the WSL, in addition to their desire to retain the Champions League title.”
Kelly made her return to domestic competition last weekend and swiftly demonstrated that her achievements during the summer have not detracted from her focus, as she successfully scored Arsenal’s second goal during their 4-1 victory over the newly promoted London City Lionesses in the opening weekend.
Domestically, the 27-year-old will aim to end Chelsea’s dominance in the WSL, while the Lionesses are scheduled to resume their activities with a friendly match against China at Wembley in November, before shifting their focus to qualifying for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
