When Spain's women's World Cup players returned to Madrid, they were greeted with a royal reception. Queen Letizia was in Sydney for the final, but she was back for the festivities.
Tens of thousands of fans had gathered in the streets wearing Spain's iconic red jersey, and the players enjoyed an open-top bus procession through the capital of Spain.
As the bus went past, other spectators waved flags or twirled scarves above their heads, while the players danced and waved back from the top of the bus.
Eventually, the World Cup heroes reached Madrid Río Park, where a stage was prepared for the squad to celebrate.
Soon after the players had mounted the platform, there was a very touching moment when they hoisted defender Olga Carmona into the air.
Shortly after the final siren, Carmona—who had scored the game-winning goal in the Women's World Cup final—was informed of her father's passing.
As her teammates raised her into the air, supporters cheered loudly for the newest sports icon in the nation.
Early on Tuesday morning, the festivities came to an end with remarks from the players and a tonne of singing and dancing, including a singalong with Spanish singer Vicco.
A few hours later, when the players met Pedro Sánchez, the prime minister of Spain, to take a picture with the trophy outside of Moncloa Palace, there probably would have been some sleepy eyes.
Even though a lot of the players are probably worn out and sleep deprived, there may still be a few days left to celebrate their historic accomplishment.
