Ella Toone, the accomplished English footballer, has opened up about the profound loss of her father, Nick Toone, who passed away in September 2024. Just days shy of his 60th birthday, Nick succumbed to prostate cancer, a diagnosis he received shortly after Ella's triumphant goal in the Euro 2022 final. Despite the close bond they shared, Nick had kept the severity of his illness from Ella until the final stages, leaving her grappling with complex emotions in the wake of his passing. In a recent piece for The Players' Tribune, Ella expressed her ongoing struggle to process her grief.
Ella's parents were unwavering supporters throughout her career, attending both home and away matches. They were known to revisit game recordings together, with Nick often calling to discuss Ella's performances. This longstanding tradition began when Ella was just six years old, playing for the Astley and Tyldesley Girls team in Greater Manchester. Her father had promised £10 for every goal she scored, a promise that cost him £100 in her very first game.
The first indication that something was amiss with Nick's health came after the opening match of the Euros. Ella noticed her father appeared unwell and was notably absent from the subsequent game against Norway. It wasn't until after Manchester United's 4-0 FA Cup final victory over Tottenham—where Ella scored the opening goal—that she learned the full extent of his condition.
"I wanted to write this, for anyone grieving and feeling alone."
In writing about her experience, Ella aims to connect with others who are navigating similar feelings of loss and isolation. Her candid reflections highlight the deep connection she shared with her father and the enduring impact he had on her life and career.
As Ella continues to navigate her grief, she remains dedicated to understanding and processing her feelings. Her father's legacy lives on in her memories and accomplishments, as she works through this challenging period.
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