Prince William pays tribute to 'pioneer' Jill Scott as she retires
Prince William pays tribute to Lioness ‘pioneer’ Jill Scott as she retires aged 35 – but jokes he won’t miss her slide tackles during ‘friendly’ kickabouts
- Prince William praised England women’s football pioneer Jill Scott
- Scott was part of the team that brought home the trophy at Women Euro 2022
- Duke of Cambridge said it has been a ‘pleasure getting to know you’
- But joked he wouldn’t miss her slide tackles during friendly kickabouts
The Duke of Cambridge has congratulated England midfielder Jill Scott on her career after she announced her retirement at the age of 35.
Prince William, president of the FA, wrote in a personal tweet: ‘A pioneer of Women’s football and a great team player.
‘@JillScottJS8 congratulations on a wonderful career, it’s been a pleasure to get to know you. Tiny bit pleased there won’t be any more slide tackles during “friendly” kickabouts… W’.
The Duke of Cambridge has congratulated England midfielder Jill Scott on her career after she announced her retirement at the age of 35. Pictured, presenting her with her gold medal at Euro 2022
The Duke of Cambridge, who is president of the FA, has met Jill Scott a number of times over the years. Pictured, at a training camp at St George’s Park ahead of Euro 2022
Prince William, president of the FA, joked he wouldn’t miss Scott’s slide tackles during ‘friendly’ kickabouts. Pictured, joining the Lionesses for a training session in 2017
The 35-year-old’s decision to hang up her boots comes just over three weeks since helping the Lionesses to Euro 2022 glory.
She earned 161 senior international caps after making her England debut in 2006 and scored 27 goals for the national side.
Scott tweeted about her decision: ‘Right, we’re not crying. I promised myself. I’m retiring from football. And I’m leaving with a gold medal swinging from my neck.’
William cheered the Lionesses on and presented them with their medals after their historic 2-1 win over Germany in the final at Wembley last month.
Yesterday the Duke of Cambridge congratulated Scott’s teammate Ellen White on her stellar career.
Prince William and Kate’s Twitter account responded to the Man City star’s news, which she shared to the social media platform this afternoon.
‘Congratulations on your record-breaking, history making career @ellsbells89,’ read the tweet.
White – who retires having scored 52 goals for the Lionesses – said it had been ‘one of the hardest decisions’ of her life but insisted it was ‘time to watch the next generation shine’.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have congratulated Ellen White following her announcement that she is retiring from football at the age of 33 after helping the Lionesses win the Euro 2022 this summer
Prince William and Kate’s Twitter account responded to the Man City star’s news, which she shared to the social media platform this afternoon
‘This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life but one that I know is the right decision for me,’ White said.
‘This decision has always been one I have wanted to make on my terms. And this is my time to say goodbye to football and watch the next generation shine.
‘It has been my greatest honour and privilege to play this game. In particular playing for England has and always will be the greatest gift. My dreams came true on the 31st July, winning the Euros and becoming a European Champion.
‘I have been very lucky to have played for a number of teams in my career. It has been a huge honour to have represented some of the biggest clubs in England and to have worn the shirt and created some unbelievable memories.
White thanked ‘football’ in an extended message shared with her Twitter followers
White’s declaration ended on a call for greater provision and inclusivity in English football
‘Thank you to all the clubs that have given me the opportunity to be a part of your football club.
‘Thank you to the managers who I have worked for. Your guidance, patience, knowledge and belief in me helped to give me the confidence to achieve my wildest dreams.
‘The hours on and off the pitch do not go unnoticed and I am incredibly grateful, and will always remember the good times.’
England manager Sarina Wiegman said: ‘Ellen has given so much for England and we are all so proud of her. I have only had the pleasure of working with her for this past year, but her professionalism, work rate and finishing ability is world-class.
‘This summer, she did an amazing job for the team, she is the perfect team player and helped the younger players to find their way in international football. I already knew she was a great player but I found an even better person. We will miss her, but I fully understand her decision to take a new direction.’
White finished as WSL runner-up with City in 2020-21 finishing the campaign with 10 goals
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