LUCY BRONZE has revealed that she played the entirety of Euro 2025 with a fractured tibia.
The Lionesses stalwart, 33, incredibly fought through the serious injury to play a key role as Sarina Wiegman’s side retained their Euros crown.
Bronze played 105 minutes of England’s final victory over Spain, before finally being forced off at half-time of extra time with a knee issue.
Following the Lionesses’ 3-1 penalty shoot-out victory, the Chelsea full-back told the BBC: “I have actually played the whole tournament with a fractured tibia, and then I have hurt my knee on my other leg.
“That’s why I got a lot of praise from the girls after the Sweden game, as I’ve been in a lot of pain. If that’s what it takes to play for England, that’s what I’ll do.”
“Very painful.”
On the tournament as a whole, warrior Bronze added: “We never lost belief in ourselves. There was a lot of noise on the outside. We stuck together and dug deep. To win on penalties. This team is so inspiring to be part of.
“What we have done today is unbelievable.
“Winning on penalties is an amazing feeling, but to lose on penalties is a horrible way to lose a final.
“I know a lot of these girls from Barca missing penalties. It is difficult I have been there a couple of years ago.
“This year it was meant for England.
“Today we have shown resilience. We have shown everyone to believe in yourself no matter what people say about you.”
Bronze, whose middle name fittingly is “Tough”, was praised for her robustness by boss Wiegman earlier in the tournament.
The Dutchwoman said: “That resilience, that fight. The only way you get her off the pitch is in a wheelchair.”
Fans were left in awe following Bronze’s incredible injury revelation, with one writing on X: “What an absolute warrior and fantastic servant for the Lionesses.
“If that is her last major tournament then what a way to bow out.”
A second gushed: “Absolutely inspirational Lucy Bronze. Incredible. The nation roars in pride!”
While a third swooned: “Well she lives up to her name…. TOUGH BRONZE.”
And another added: “She seriously deserves a Damehood.”
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