England Star Jess Carter Opens Up About Devastating Racist Abuse During Euro 2025 Triumph
England defender Jess Carter has courageously revealed the profound personal impact of online racist abuse she endured during the Lionesses' victorious Euro 2025 campaign, admitting the vile attacks left her fearful of leaving her hotel room while representing her country in Switzerland.
A Scary Time That Devalued Human Worth
The 28-year-old footballer, who played a crucial role in Sarina Wiegman's side retaining their European title last summer, described how the abuse prompted her to step back from social media and significantly affected her confidence on the pitch. "It was the first time where I lacked in confidence on the pitch," Carter told BBC Sport. "I didn't want to leave the hotel in case the people who were saying those things were going to be in Switzerland with us."
Carter, who has since moved to Gotham FC in the United States after leaving Chelsea with five Women's Super League titles, expressed the emotional toll of the experience. "It was quite a scary time and it was just really sad. It kind of totally devalues you as a human being," she revealed, highlighting how personal attacks transcend normal football criticism.
Guilty Plea Follows Vile Social Media Attacks
The Lioness's comments come after a 60-year-old man pleaded guilty to sending abusive posts referencing her race and making offensive suggestions about people with brown skin directly to her TikTok account during the tournament. Carter emphasised the distinction between sporting rivalry and personal abuse, stating: "I do not mind if people don't like the way I play football, everyone is entitled to their opinion. But when you start attacking them as human beings and [for] what they look like, it's a really sad thing to do."
Growing Problem for High-Profile Players
Carter expressed concern that the issue is worsening for professional footballers, particularly as women's football profiles continue to grow. "But that's got worse. A lot of the players, specifically with the Lionesses, the profiles are getting huge now and every player should feel comfortable walking along the street and being whoever they want to be, and it's getting to a place where I think a lot of people don't feel that comfort any more," she explained.
The defender has called for greater collaboration between social media companies and police forces to tackle online abuse more effectively. She also highlighted her sense of responsibility to speak out, not just for herself but for others facing similar harassment. "I felt a sense of responsibility to speak up, not only for myself, but just for anybody else that's facing that kind of abuse. We want great rivalries, but the abuse, for me, doesn't need to come with it," Carter stated.
Her powerful testimony sheds light on the disturbing reality that even during moments of sporting triumph and national celebration, professional athletes can face deeply personal attacks that affect their mental wellbeing and sense of security.
