Female Players 69% More Likely to Suffer Online Abuse

New Delhi, India Jul 9, 2026 ALN: Female players are 69% more likely to experience social media abuse than their male counterparts, according to findings by World.

This statistic highlights a significant disparity in the online experiences of male and female athletes, shedding light on a pervasive issue that has gained increasing attention in recent years. The findings indicate that female players face a higher likelihood of encountering various forms of abuse, including misogyny, gender identity discrimination, sexuality-based harassment, and body-shaming. These forms of abuse not only affect the mental health and well-being of the athletes but also impact their performance and overall experience within their respective s.

In response to these alarming statistics, the governing body has taken proactive measures, referring eight specific cases of abuse to law enforcement. This indicates a recognition of the severity of the issue and an intention to hold offenders accountable. The cases span multiple countries, including Belgium, France, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and the United States, showcasing that online abuse is a global problem that transcends geographical boundaries.

The issue of online abuse against female athletes is not new, but it has escalated in recent years, particularly with the rise of social media. Notable figures in the s world, such as tennis player Katie Boulter and Wales number eight Georgia Evans, have bravely spoken out about their personal experiences with online harassment. Their testimonies serve to amplify the conversation surrounding the treatment of female athletes in the digital space and the urgent need for change.

Alan Gilpin, the chief executive of World, commented on the dual nature of social media, stating, "Social media has transformed for the better, enabling connection, storytelling, and growth. But it also increases the risk of harm, stress, and suffering." His remarks underline the complex relationship athletes have with social media, where the platforms can serve as both a tool for engagement and a source of distress. At the Women's World Cup 2025, a commitment was made to stand against hate and to take necessary steps to identify and act against abusers, reflecting a growing movement within s organizations to address these issues head-on.

Evans's experience during the World Cup, where she faced negative comments regarding her appearance, is a stark reminder of the personal toll that online abuse can take. Similarly, American international Ilona Maher, who is recognized as the most followed player globally, noted that the "abuse is constant" on social media. This constant barrage of negativity can have detrimental effects on athletes' mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and a decreased sense of belonging within their s communities.

World's analysis of a substantial dataset comprising 440,000 social media posts identified 1,189 that met the threshold for unlawful content. This analysis serves as a critical step in understanding the scale of the problem and emphasizes the need for platforms to enhance their monitoring and reporting mechanisms. The call for collaboration between governments and social media platforms aims to streamline the reporting process for abuse and ensure that appropriate actions are taken swiftly to protect athletes and other users from harassment.

Additionally, the recent resignation of a Football council member, who posted discriminatory criticism of television pundit and England World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by women in s. This incident followed a letter from the Women's Leadership Collective to the Football (RFU), urging a policy change and the dismissal of the council member. Such incidents underscore the need for accountability at all levels of s organizations, as they play a crucial role in shaping the culture and environment in which athletes operate.

Despite the challenges, there are positive developments in women's s that indicate a growing recognition and support for female athletes. A study conducted by the Women's Trust revealed that the Women's Six Nations was the second most-watched women's ing event on television in 2025, following football and surpassing both cricket and golf. This increase in viewership reflects a rising interest in women's s and a potential shift in societal attitudes towards female athletes.

During the Women's Six Nations, a record-breaking attendance of 81,885 fans at Allianz Stadium witnessed England's victory over Canada. This achievement not only set a record for a women's match but also marked the second-highest attendance for any World Cup final, indicating a significant milestone in the promotion and popularity of women's s.

Moreover, the match achieved the status of the most-watched women's event on UK television, with a peak audience of 5.8 million viewers on the BBC. This viewership surpassed both the Six Nations and the British and Irish Lions' winning tour of Australia, demonstrating the growing appeal of women's and the potential for further growth in the .

Following the tournament in England, research commissioned by the BBC indicated a substantial increase in the number of supporters for women's in the UK, rising from 7.94 million pre-existing fans to 13.21 million. This surge in interest highlights the positive impact of high-profile events in raising awareness and support for female athletes, as well as the potential for long-term growth in women's s.

In conclusion, while the statistics regarding online abuse against female players are alarming, they also serve as a catalyst for change within the s community. The commitment from organizations, athletes, and fans to address these issues head-on is crucial in creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all athletes. As the visibility of women's s continues to grow, it is imperative that the conversation around online abuse and the treatment of female athletes remains at the forefront, ensuring that progress is made both on and off the field.