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French captain Wendie Renard announced that she was ‘stepping back’ from international football on Friday. The 32-year-old center back has been an icon on the women’s national team for years, but now will not compete in the upcoming 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Renard issued a statement on her social media referring to the current state of the team.
“I defended the blue, white, and red shirt 142 times with passion, respect, commitment, and professionalism. I love France more than anything. I am not perfect — far from it — but I can no longer support the current system,” wrote Renard.
“Not to mention the requirements at the highest level. It is a sad, although necessary, day in order to preserve my mental wellbeing. It is with a heavy heart that I inform you with this message that I am stepping back from the French national team. Unfortunately, I will not participate in a World Cup under these conditions. My face can hide the pain, but my heart is hurting. I do not want to be in pain any longer. Thank you for your support and respecting my decision.”
Renard’s farewell is just the latest player departure for the France women’s national team under manager Corrine Diarce who has been in charge of the team since 2017. Several players have attempted to speak out on conditions within the team culture, and players have either stepped away from the team or have suddenly been omitted from rosters following public comments. Despite the constant occurrence of player walk-outs and tournament eliminations, France Football and President Noël Le Graët, who was himself forced to step down after comments directed at Zinedine Zidane, continued to support Diarce remaining in charge.
Veteran players that have either been turned into outcasts or walked away from the team due to the current conditions include midfielders Gaëtane Thiney and Amandine Henry and forward Eugine…
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