England’s beloved Lioness, Ella Toone, recently unveiled a deeply personal and heartbreaking tragedy she endured just hours before helping her team secure the Euro 2025 final victory. This revelation sheds new light on the immense mental fortitude required by England football stars at the pinnacle of their careers.
On the very morning of the dramatic final, Toone received the devastating news of her beloved grandmother’s passing. This profound loss, kept hidden from the public eye, underscored the silent battles many women’s football players face even amidst their greatest triumphs.
Despite the personal turmoil, Ella Toone started the high-stakes match against Spain in Basel, a testament to her dedication to the Lionesses. She played a crucial role until her substitution in the 87th minute, with the score locked in a tense 1-1 draw, before England ultimately retained their European title through a nail-biting penalty shootout.
Days later, through a poignant Instagram post adorned with cherished photos, Toone shared her profound grief, expressing comfort that her “Nanna Maz” watched from “the best seat in the house.” Her words highlighted the emotional toll on the Lionesses hero, navigating both professional glory and private sorrow.
This personal tragedy follows the loss of her father the previous September, adding layers of emotional weight to the Euro 2025 final. Toone had subtly hinted at her grief in an earlier post, dedicating the win to “angels in the sky,” a sentiment echoed by teammate Beth Mead, who also lost her mother recently.
A striking detail was the empty seat (430) reserved for her father at St. Jakob-Park, a powerful symbol of loved ones lost but not forgotten, and a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices made by an England football star. This moment resonated deeply with fans, showcasing the human side of professional athletes.
Toone’s grandmother, affectionately known as Nanna Maz, had already charmed fans through her appearances on Toone’s YouTube channel, becoming a beloved figure. Her playful phone calls offered a glimpse into their close bond and even fueled jokes about her newfound fame.
Remarkably, Nanna Maz was also one of Toone’s earliest and most ardent supporters, even placing a bet in her granddaughter’s childhood that she would one day play for England. This heartwarming anecdote reveals the deep family roots behind Ella Toone’s remarkable journey.
Having represented the Lionesses 65 times and scoring 23 goals since 2021, Toone continues to be a cornerstone of England football, embodying resilience and dedication, even when facing the lowest of lows off the pitch. Her story is a powerful testament to personal strength.
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