Ballon d’Or awards: England’s Sarina Wiegman and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton win awards

In her acceptance speech, Hampton paid tribute to Matt Beard, the former Chelsea, Liverpool, West Ham and Bristol City manager, who died on Saturday aged 47.

“The women’s game sadly on Saturday lost a real trailblazer, Matt Beard,” said Hampton. “Matt was someone who cared an awful lot for the women’s game when no-one else did. He lit up the room whenever he was in it.

“And this is just a message to show that not everyone should have to go through these dark moments alone. Sometimes the brightest smiles in the room hide the heaviest pain. He’ll be greatly missed.”

Born with a serious eye condition, Hampton was told by doctors she should not play football. She had multiple operations to try to correct her vision but it is not perfect and she still has depth perception issues.

“Firstly I would like to say a massive thank you to France Football for this award,” said Hampton, who thanked all the coaches and her family members. “I don’t think it’s an achievement for me but for women’s goalkeeping, that the award is finally now taking part.

“I stand on the shoulders of so many great goalkeepers of the past. Sitting alongside my fellow nominees, I’m proud to be a part of such an incredible group and inspiring future generations of goalkeepers coming through and training so hard.

“I’d like to thank my family, my brother – who is here tonight – for the sacrifices that you made when I was growing up, driving me around everywhere so that I could fulfil my dream and be here tonight.

“To all the coaches, there’s so many. To Sarina for having the faith in me over the summer, with the success we’ve had. To the fans – your support does not go unnoticed and it truly means a lot.

“Finally, to Grandpa. I love and miss you every day. I hope I made you proud. We did it.”

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