Emma Hayes highlights expectation of abuse among female footballers
- Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis faced homophobic comments on social media after announcing their pregnancy.
- Emma Hayes stated that female footballers have come to expect such abuse, although it is unacceptable.
- Chelsea FC and the Chelsea LGBTQ+ supporters group condemned the hateful comments and advocated for an inclusive football community.
In response to recent hateful and homophobic comments directed at Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis, Emma Hayes, the former Chelsea coach and current Head Coach of the United States women's national soccer team, expressed her concerns regarding the abuse female footballers face. The incidents occurred following the announcement of Kerr and Mewis's pregnancy. Social media users posted numerous congratulatory messages, but a significant number also resorted to trolling, even prompting the couple to disable comments on their post. Chelsea FC issued a statement condemning the discrimination and expressing their support for the players. Additionally, a Chelsea LGBTQ+ supporters group voiced their outrage over the hateful comments received, reaffirming the club's commitment to fighting homophobia and promoting inclusivity in football.