CASERAS (Spain) — When Spain won the Women’s World Cup soccer tournament in August, its triumph and subsequent celebrations was marred by Luis Rubiales’ actions. Rubiales is a former football player and official, who served as president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, and vice president of the Union of European Football Associations.
Rubiales kissed Jennifer Hermoso on the lips at the award ceremony. This caused a controversy that lasted for weeks. Hermoso insists that the kiss was not consensual. Rubiales resigned from his position after the incident and appeared in court this week. A judge issued a restraining orders. The former Spanish official is not allowed to be within 200 meters of Hermoso, and a court in Madrid is examining a criminal complaint relating to sexual assault and coercion.
What does this have anything to do with golf, exactly? Carlota Ciganda, a Spanish journalist who was preparing for the 2023 Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin this week, was asked to comment on the incident. Her response drew applause from Spanish media and European media. The following quotes were translated from Spanish into English.
Ciganda said, “It was unfortunate what happened at the end. When Spain won the World Cup I believe we should celebrate it because this is something that will not happen often.” “I believe that Rubioles was clearly wrong. He shouldn’t have acted like that in front of so many people, at such a public occasion.”
She continued, “Of course I support the athletes and when so many agree on something, it’s obvious that things may have happened we don’t know about.” “But the most important thing to me is to celebrate this World Cup. Everyone should be proud of the great athletes and our country.”
Ciganda said that it was “a dream come through” and a “pleasure”, to represent her country in the European team at her sixth Solheim Cup this week.
“I love playing for my team. Solheim reminds me of the European Team Championships I played with Spain. Match play is a lot fun, because at the end of a match, you’re going to have a winner,” said Ciganda. He boasts an impressive 7-8-4 record against the United States in this biennial tournament. “I love match play. I enjoy playing for my team, teammates and captain. It’s much more enjoyable to play for the team than just yourself. This week’s atmosphere and our team spirit is something I love. “I love the fact that we are always one team in Europe.”
Pamplona’s resident and native Pamplona doesn’t feel extra pressure this week because he is the only Spaniard in the 12-player European team.
“I don’t think it will be pressure, but excitement, adrenaline and fun,” said Ciganda. Ciganda said, “I’m going embrace it. I think it will be great to have the support of Spain, my family, and many members from my Club.” “So, I’m going to just go out there and have fun.” I know that I will feel nervous, and I will feel the adrenaline. “I know I can do great golf, so I will just enjoy and embrace each moment.”
