Mural of Lioness Chloe Kelly unveiled in Manchester to recognise her record-breaking penalty
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A mural of Lioness Chloe Kelly was recently unveiled in Manchester’s Northern Quarter to commemorate her historic penalty kick. The 2,774-square-foot mural, which was revealed on February 15th, pays tribute to the England women’s national football team and Manchester City star.
The mural captures a significant moment in Kelly’s career when she delivered a powerful penalty kick during the Women’s World Cup match against Nigeria. This kick was notable for being more powerful than any shot recorded in the top England men’s football tournament in the 2022/23 season. The mural serves as a lasting reminder of Kelly’s incredible talent and skill on the football field.
While England ultimately fell short of winning the Women’s World Cup in 2023, losing to Spain in the final, Kelly’s performance during the tournament solidified her status as a standout player in women’s football. Her record-breaking penalty kick continues to be celebrated and admired by fans and fellow athletes alike.
The mural was commissioned by Doritos as part of a larger campaign to challenge stereotypes in sports and beyond. Research conducted by Opinium revealed that only one in six UK adults believed that a woman held the record for the most powerful kick. This finding underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of female athletes in a male-dominated sports landscape.
In addition to highlighting Kelly’s momentous achievement, the mural also serves as a reminder of the need for greater representation of women athletes in public spaces. The research conducted by Doritos found that nearly a quarter of UK adults believe that women athletes should be celebrated more, and that there is a significant lack of statues and monuments honoring female sporting stars.
The study also revealed that a large majority of UK adults value self-expression, with 70% agreeing that it is important to feel comfortable expressing one’s identity. This sentiment aligns with Kelly’s own message of empowerment and inclusivity in sports.
Reflecting on the unveiling of the mural, Chloe Kelly expressed her gratitude and excitement at being honored in such a visible way. She emphasized the importance of breaking down gender stereotypes in sports and creating equal opportunities for all aspiring athletes, regardless of their gender.
“It’s not men’s football or women’s football, it’s just football,” Kelly stated. “Everyone deserves a chance to pursue their passions and enjoy the game, regardless of the stereotypes that may exist. Being a woman has never held me back from following my dreams, and I hope that every girl out there feels empowered to do the same.”
The mural of Chloe Kelly in Manchester’s Northern Quarter stands as a powerful symbol of female excellence in sports and a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and representation in the world of athletics. As more women athletes are celebrated and recognized for their achievements, the path towards gender equality in sports becomes clearer and more attainable for future generations.
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