England international Jess Carter has described how racist abuse during Euro 2025 left her too frightened to leave her team hotel, in a powerful interview highlighting growing concerns about online harassment in women's football.

Tournament Trauma

The 28-year-old defender, now playing for NWSL side Gotham FC, revealed she received vile racist messages through TikTok during England's successful championship defense. The posts included derogatory references to her skin color and unfounded criminal accusations.

"It totally devalues you as a human being," Carter told BBC Sport. "I didn't want to leave the hotel in case those people saying these things were in Switzerland with us."

Nigel Dewale, 60, recently pleaded guilty to sending the abusive content and awaits sentencing at Blackburn Magistrates' Court. The harassment marked the first time Carter's confidence suffered both personally and professionally.

Growing Abuse Crisis

The Euro 2022 champion warned that online abuse against female players is escalating, with sexist and homophobic comments becoming commonplace:

  • Players feel pressured to tolerate abuse silently
  • Women's football's traditionally inclusive culture is under threat
  • Lionesses' rising profiles make them bigger targets

Transatlantic Contrast

Since joining Gotham FC in 2024, Carter noted stark differences in fan behavior between American and English supporters:

"In America they're so positive - they'll cheer you even after a bad game. My happiness now comes before football in career decisions."

The defender praised teammates for supporting her during the ordeal, leading the squad to abandon pre-match anti-racism gestures they felt had become ineffective.

Call for Action

Carter urged improved cooperation between authorities and tech companies to combat abuse:

"Police and social media firms need alignment on what constitutes actionable harassment. Without shared criteria, offenders slip through gaps."

As women's football continues breaking attendance and viewership records, Carter emphasized the need to preserve its family-friendly atmosphere while addressing mounting abuse challenges.

Tags:

#Women's Football #social media #Online Abuse #England Lionesses #racism in sports