Lucia Loi opens up on endometriosis struggle while supporting Rashford at World Cup 2026

Lucia Loi, partner of England forward Marcus Rashford, has publicly shared her experiences with endometriosis in a heartfelt Instagram post, uploading a photograph of herself in tears after the chronic condition stopped her from attending a friend’s birthday celebration during the World Cup 2026 in the United States.

Loi, 28, was present in New Jersey to watch Rashford play in England’s 2-0 group-stage victory over Panama, a result that secured the Three Lions’ place in the knockout rounds. Rashford, who had already scored in England’s opening win against Croatia, impressed again on the left wing in the third group fixture.

In her post, Loi described the moment the condition overtook her plans: “This was me last night. I had my heels on, my makeup done, and I was ready to go and celebrate my friend’s birthday. Endometriosis had other ideas.”

She added that she had long wanted to speak publicly about the condition but had struggled to find the courage. “Last night, though, I felt so much anger at the fact that so many women go through this while there are so few effective treatment options and the condition remains so under-researched,” she wrote, promising to share more about what has helped her manage symptoms over time. She closed the post with a message of solidarity: “I’m sending so much love to anyone living with a women’s health condition.”

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue resembling the womb lining grows outside the uterus, typically on pelvic organs. During the menstrual cycle, this tissue thickens, breaks down and bleeds as normal uterine lining does, but because it has no way of leaving the body, it causes internal inflammation, severe pelvic pain, painful periods, scar tissue and potential fertility complications. There is currently no definitive cure, and the condition is estimated to affect one in ten women in the UK.

Loi’s post drew a wave of supportive responses, including from other partners of England players. Megan Pickford, partner of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, wrote: “Oh my darling, such an important message.” Jack Grealish’s partner Sasha Attwood commented: “Love you special girl.”

Loi and Rashford, who both attended Ashton-on-Mersey School in Greater Manchester, separated in 2021 before rekindling their relationship.