Just hours after being hailed a hero in Spain's Women's World Cup victory over England, Olga Carmona found out her father had died.
The captain scored the goal that earned Spain a 1-0 win over England in the 29th minute.
The Spanish FA (RFEF) confirmed the news that Carmona's father had passed away while the team was travelling home after the final.
"The RFEF deeply regrets to announce the death of Olga Carmona's father. The footballer learned the sad news after the World Cup final," they said on social media.
Advert
"We send our most sincere embrace to Olga and her family in a moment of deep sorrow. We love you, Olga, you are Spanish soccer history."
Real Madrid also released a statement on social media.
“Real Madrid C.F., its president and its Board of Directors deeply lament the passing of the father of our player Olga Carmona,” the club said on Instagram.
“Real Madrid wishes to express its condolences and affection to Olga, her family and all of her loved ones. Rest in peace."
Advert
According to Spanish media outlet Relevo, Carmona's father passed away on Friday after a long illness.
The Real Madrid player's family and friends decided not to tell her about her father's passing until after the World Cup final so she could focus on the match.
The 23-year-old was named player of the match after scoring the only goal in the final game at Stadium Australia.
Carmona dedicated her goal to the late mother of one of her best friends, displaying an undershirt with 'Merchi' written on it.
“I want to say this victory is for one of my best friend’s mother, who died recently, I celebrated the goal with that shirt,” Carmona told Spanish state broadcasters La 1, after the match.
Advert
Before news of Carmona's father's passing, the team was set to celebrate their victory after their arrival back in Madrid on Monday night.
It's unclear whether the celebrations will go ahead now.
Keryn Donnelly