Even with all the modern apparel technology, a jersey can still feel heavy when the name on the back means something. Not for Federico Higuain.
Having been referred to as ‘Stormzy’s girlfriend’ in June 2017, Maya Jama tweeted “I know you mean no harm by it but it’s quite frustrating when you work so hard n so much just to be referred to as someone’s girlfriend :/”. That was followed up by another tweet stating “Especially when you know my name lol but I suppose I just have to work harder then”. The woman who is a successful presenter and model among other things, was rightfully aggrieved at having her own achievements downplayed due to those of someone she is close to. It’s often the case in the world of celebrity that family members or partners have their successes compared. Whoever’s is deemed to be less notable will likely be referred to as the other’s relative, rather than being seen on their own merits. However, people should be able to celebrate each other’s achievements without having them attached.
In November of this year many journalists wrote about how “Gonzalo Higuain’s brother” and penalty shootout heartbreak ruined Wayne Rooney and DC United’s MLS Play Off hopes. Gonzalo Higuain’s brother. Really? For context Federico Higuain had just scored in normal time, extra time and converted in a penalty shootout, getting Columbus Crew through an MLS Cup Play Off match against one of the most in form teams in the league. Call me pedantic, but surely the least that he deserves is to be recognised by his own name rather than being referred to as someone’s brother.
It is highly unlikely that either Higuain sibling saw this, especially as Federico is more likely to pass time with a book than go on social media. The description was likely put across in that way to encourage more clicks, a tactic which has been used by many media outlets, but like Maya he’s surely done enough to be referred to by his own name. This is the case even if his achievements are of course dwarfed by those of a man who’s played in a World Cup final, been Serie A top scorer and won major titles in both Spain and Italy. Allow me to give you a more detailed introduction to the brilliance of Federico ‘Pipa’ Higuain and the impact he’s had on Columbus Crew as well as the MLS.