Mary Earps Becomes First Female Footballer with Madame Tussauds Wax Figure

England goalkeeper Mary Earps has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the inaugural female professional footballer to be honored with a waxwork at Madame Tussauds. The Paris Saint-Germain player secured an overwhelming majority in a public vote conducted to determine which Lionesses star would receive a figure at the London attraction. Madame Tussauds stated it had been collaborating with the 31-year-old for over a year leading up to the official launch on Sunday, an event attended by dozens of fans. Joining family and friends for the occasion, the Nottingham-born player described the unveiling as “incredibly special.” Earps, who led England to the Euro 2022 title and received an MBE in May, now stands alongside figures such as Sir David Attenborough, Emmeline Pankhurst, Stormzy, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The new figure is attired in the kit she wore during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final. Earps commented, “To make this mark as the first female footballer to have a figure at Madame Tussauds London is incredibly special.” She added, “This is not about me. This is a representation of how women’s football has grown, and the trajectory it’s on. “Seeing my friends, family, and fans’ reactions to the figure is absolutely amazing, they couldn’t believe how accurate the features are – neither can I if I’m honest.”My gran especially is amazed by it all and I’m so happy she gets to share this moment with me.” Steve Blackburn, general manager at Madame Tussauds London, further stated: “Mary is a pioneer both on and off the pitch who has inspired millions with her exceptional talent and dedication. It is an honour to celebrate her achievements with her first-ever figure.” Earps’s figure will be on display at the Madame Tussauds Baker Street site starting Friday. Follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.