England internationals Jess Carter and Lauren James have bravely spoken out about the relentless online abuse they face as professional footballers. The duo highlighted the emotional toll of social media harassment and urged platforms to take stronger action.
The Dark Side of Fame
Both players revealed how constant negativity affects their mental health, with Carter stating: "It's exhausting having to deal with hateful comments after every match." James added that young players are particularly vulnerable to online trolls.
Call for Change
The Lionesses stars are now pushing for:
- Stricter verification on social platforms
- Faster removal of abusive content
- Better education about online behaviour
Their comments come as football authorities face increasing pressure to protect players from digital harassment.
Impact on Performance
James admitted the abuse sometimes affects her game: "When you're constantly being told you're not good enough, it's hard not to let that creep into your mind." Carter emphasised the need for better support systems within clubs.
As women's football continues to grow in popularity, the players hope their openness will spark meaningful change in how online abuse is handled across the sport.
