A Fairy-Tale Comeback

In a fairy-tale comeback moment, Everton's forward Rikke Madsen celebrated her return to the pitch after a year-long absence due to motherhood with an unforgettable on-field proposal from her boyfriend, Martin Thomsen. This emotional event unfolded following her team's impressive 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday in the Women's Super League.

A Special Milestone

The 27-year-old Madsen, who came off the bench during the second half, was returning to football after welcoming her baby in October. This emotional day not only highlighted her determination to get back into the game but also coincided with her child’s five-month milestone, adding layers to her joyous return.

An Unexpected Proposal

After the final whistle, as her teammates reveled in the victory, Madsen experienced an unexpected turn of events. Thomsen stepped onto the pitch carrying their newborn baby and beautiful flowers before kneeling down to pop the question. "I've been waiting for this moment for so long now, a year," she shared with the BBC. “Today my little baby is turning five months, so it is so nice to be back. Ending off with my boyfriend asking me to marry him was a little twist. I did not expect that.”

Reflections on the Day

Having not played since March 10, 2024, Madsen had faced uncertainty about her return, making this day even more precious. Reflecting on the experience, she said, "It was a very happy day. I had no idea I was going to come on, and I had especially no idea he was going to propose to me. The first thing I said to the other girls was that I hate surprises, but this one was alright."

A Day to Remember

This touching story not only showcases Madsen's resilience and passion for the sport but also highlights the joy and love that come with family, all taking place on a day that will forever be etched in her memory as one of the happiest of her life. As she embarks on this new chapter, both on and off the field, fans and supporters are eager to see what the future holds for the star forward and her family.