( Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail )
England Women’s Football Stars to Limit Social Media Use During Major Tournaments Amid Online Abuse Concerns
As England’s women’s national football team prepares to defend their UEFA Women’s Euro title in Switzerland this July, players have opened up about their decision to step back from social media during major tournaments due to the emotional toll of online abuse.
Striker Alessia Russo, fresh off a UEFA Women’s Champions League-winning season with Arsenal, shared her experiences with negative comments online. She revealed that, earlier in her career, she engaged more with social media, which sometimes impacted her focus and well-being.
She added that during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she made a conscious decision to step away from social media entirely.Chelsea forward Lauren James, another key figure for the Lionesses, echoed Russo’s sentiments, acknowledging that online abuse is, unfortunately, a constant.
James also noted that sometimes the hate she receives online isn’t even related to her performance on the pitch.
Both players emphasized the importance of mental well-being and team unity, especially during high-pressure tournaments.
The UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 kicks off on July 2 in Switzerland, with England aiming to defend their title and continue inspiring the next generation of female footballers — both on and off the pitch.
