France captain Wendy Renard said today she will not play in this year’s Women’s World Cup to maintain her mental health, adding that she “can no longer support the current system”.

Widely regarded as one of the best defenders in women’s football, Wendy Renard played for France earlier this month against Norway, Denmark and Uruguay. The 32-year-old has made 142 caps for France and plays for Lyon.

According to French publication RMC Sport, Renard will no longer play for the national team while Corinne Diacre is in charge.

“I love France more than anything, I don’t feel completely far from it, but I can no longer support the current system, which is far from the requirements of the highest level,” Renard wrote on social networks.

“This is a sad day, but it is necessary to maintain my mental health. It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of my decision to leave the French national team. Unfortunately, I will not play in this World Cup in such conditions. My face may hide the pain, but my heart is suffering and I don’t want to suffer anymore.”

This year’s World Championship, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia, will run from 20 July to 20 August.

France were placed in Group 6 along with Jamaica, Brazil and Panama. They start their group tour on 23 July against Jamaica.

Source: RES-IPE