England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton has opened up about a private heartbreak that she carried with her throughout the Lionesses’ triumphant Euros campaign.
The 24-year-old Chelsea star, who became a national hero after saving two crucial penalties in the final, revealed on Instagram that her beloved grandfather passed away just two days before the tournament began.
“Two days before the biggest tournament of my life, you left,” Hannah wrote in a deeply emotional tribute. “It still doesn’t feel real. I kept thinking when I’d call Nannie, I’d hear your voice again.”
Inside the collar of her England jersey, she had the word “Grandpa” and the number “222” printed as a silent tribute throughout the games.
“He was one of my biggest supporters,” Hannah shared. “He believed in me before I even knew what this journey would look like.” She went on to credit him for teaching her life lessons beyond football — about staying grounded, working hard, and doing things the right way.
Hannah admitted it broke her heart that her grandfather couldn’t witness her walking out for her country in her first major tournament — a dream they had long shared.
“But I know, deep down, you were still there,” she wrote. “In the tunnel. On the pitch. In the tough moments. I heard you in my head when I needed strength. I hope I made you proud, Grandpa.”
After sharing her tribute, fans and fellow players rushed to send support. Teammate Aggie Beever-Jones wrote: “Immensely proud, Han.” The official Chelsea Women account added: “Sending our love, Hannah.”
Her story, filled with resilience and love, has struck a chord with fans across the nation — a silent strength behind England’s golden moment.
