Carter Reveals Impact of Racism During Euros on Mental Health

Jess Carter, an England defender, expressed her reluctance to leave her hotel room during Euro 2025, fearing encounters with those who sent her racist messages online.

Earlier this month, a 60-year-old named Nigel Dewale admitted to sending abusive messages to the 28-year-old’s TikTok account throughout the tournament, which saw England emerge victorious.

The offensive messages contained racist slurs directed at Carter, suggesting that individuals with brown skin were ‘murderers’ and ‘groomers’.

Having previously played for Birmingham City and Chelsea, Carter emphasized that the level of abuse faced by female players is escalating.

Currently with Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League in the United States, she revealed that she had to step back from social media due to experiencing extensive racial abuse since the tournament commenced.

“I didn’t want to leave the hotel in case those people who were saying those things were going to be in Switzerland with us,” Carter shared.

“It was quite a scary time. It totally devalues you as a human being.”

Growing Concerns Over Online Abuse

In a candid conversation, Carter highlighted the persistent online sexism and homophobia that female athletes endure, stating, “We’re just expected to put up with it.”

She expressed concern that if players remain silent about their experiences with abuse, it perpetuates the misconception that such issues are nonexistent, leaving them to suffer in isolation.

Carter remarked on the traditionally welcoming nature of women’s football, but noted that players are increasingly cautious about self-expression due to the intensifying backlash on social platforms.

Positive Changes in the US

American fans supporting Gotham FC have proven to be noticeably more amiable compared to those in England.

According to Carter, the atmosphere in America is filled with positivity, as fans are quick to praise players, regardless of their performance on the field.

“My happiness comes before any form of football anymore, so whatever decision I make on where I’ll play football will be based on where I think I’ll be happiest for myself, my family,” she explained.

During Euro 2025, Carter received strong support from her teammates, who collectively decided to abandon the anti-racism gesture of taking a knee before matches, recognizing the need for more effective methods to combat racism.

Challenges Ahead for Women’s Football

As the popularity of women’s football continues to grow, Carter voiced concerns that the sport is losing its inclusive atmosphere.

She observed, “You’re starting to hesitate about who you want to be – and that’s not what we want.”

Carter insists that while rivalries are welcome, they should not be accompanied by hostility.

She noted, “But that’s just got worse, specifically with the Lionesses.”

With increased visibility, every player should feel at ease being themselves in public spaces, yet many are beginning to feel uncomfortable.

Call for Collaboration Against Online Abuse

Carter mentioned that while she hasn’t been closely following Dewale’s case, she has cooperated with law enforcement whenever possible. The magistrates have postponed the case until 25 March for a pre-sentencing evaluation, indicating that all sentencing options, including prison, remain available.

She commended social media platforms for their efforts to address online harassment but expressed skepticism about completely eliminating the issue.

“What I have learned from all of this is, the criteria for what the police classify as crossing the line versus what some social media companies believe has crossed the line is a little bit different,” Carter noted.

She urged for enhanced cooperation between law enforcement and social media companies, emphasizing the importance of being aligned in their approach to tackle online abuse.