**Trial Begins for Ex-Spanish Soccer Chief Amid Forced Kiss Scandal**

**On the first day of the trial, Jennifer Hermoso expressed the emotional turmoil caused by the unsanctioned kiss that sparked a national debate on sexism in sports.**

As the trial of former Spanish soccer chief Luis Rubiales commenced on Monday, the focus turned to the high-profile allegations stemming from the controversial kiss of soccer star Jennifer Hermoso. The incident, which occurred following Spain's triumphant 2023 Women’s World Cup, has escalated into a significant legal battle, highlighting issues of sexual assault and power dynamics within the sports community.

In her testimony, Hermoso articulated the emotional distress Rubiales caused her, declaring that he had “ruined one of the happiest days of my life” with the unexpected embrace. The 34-year-old soccer player cited feelings of disrespect and horror at Rubiales' actions, which she described as completely unprovoked.

This scandal has morphed into a prominent topic of discussion within Spanish society, igniting conversations about the pervasive sexism ingrained in the sport and connecting it to Spain's broader #MeToo movement. Rubiales, who faces potential imprisonment for up to two and a half years if found guilty, is joined by three other former officials implicated in coercion. Reports indicate that players were pressured to publicly support Rubiales following the kiss, a claim Hermoso reiterated in her testimony.

Rubiales, however, has maintained that the kiss was consensual. As the trial unfolds, many await the verdict, which could possibly reshape the landscape of accountability in sports. Hermoso poignantly described her experience as one that happened in "a thousandth of a second," emphasizing the overwhelming shock of the entire episode. This case stands as a critical moment not just for Hermoso, but for numerous others who have encountered similar injustices in the world of sports.