Nike Inc. has released Manchester United's Mary Earps' sought-after jersey following public demand. Despite no official announcement, the Women's Super League goalkeeper's apparel sold out hours after its unexpected launch.
As per Reuters, Nike was inundated with criticisms for not selling Earps' World Cup finals jersey. The widespread disapproval apparently pushed the sneaker manufacturer to sell the shirt that fans have been clamoring for.
Sold Out Jerseys on the Same Day of Launch
With the release of the merchandise, the goalkeeper said in a post on social media that she did not know that her jersey was put up for sale. But still, she thanked fans for their support, especially after it was reported that the shirts got sold out just a few hours after they were stacked up in the stores.
While the sales result was overwhelming, it was reported that Nike refused to comment to confirm if the jerseys were sold out. It was also pointed out that the Mary Earps World Cup shirts are not on sale on either Nike's or the England Football Association's website. Moreover, SportsPro Media reported that despite the absence of a formal announcement for the release, the apparel still sold out quickly.
Petition for Nike to Sell Mary Earps and Women Goalkeepers' Jerseys
Prior to the selling of Earps' replica shirts, fans have signed a petition for Nike to include women footballers' jerseys, too. The petition titled "Stand with us in support of Mary Earps and all female goalkeepers around the world!" gained more than 170,000 signatures since its posting in late July.
Mary Earp's Achievements
The 30-year-old English footballer is one of the popular players in the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand this year. She also received FIFA's Golden Glove award and last month was voted England Women's Player of the Year.
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