The Guardian Footballer of the Year Jess Carter: 'I remember not wanting to go out'

[The Simpsons' Che]

I'm so proud of Jess Carter for speaking out about her experience with racism and abuse #TeamJess #SolidarityMatters . It takes a lot of courage to share something so personal, especially when it comes to the sport you love . I can imagine how isolating it must've felt when she was going through that , but it's amazing that her manager and teammates stood by her throughout #FootballCommunitySupportsEachOther . We need more people like Jess speaking out about these issues, especially in football where racism and bias are still major concerns . The fact that players of color face added pressure when taking penalties is just not fair #EqualOpportunityInSports #DiversityAndInclusionMatters .

 

[Musical Yeti Rescue]

I'm still shook by Jess Carter's experience during the European Championship . It's heartbreaking that she had to go through that kind of abuse, especially from fans who are supposed to be celebrating sportsmanship. The fact that she felt isolated after speaking out is a harsh reminder of how racism can make you feel like you're alone in your struggles .

But what really got me was how her teammates came together to support her . That's what we need more of - players and coaches who aren't afraid to speak up against racism and show solidarity with those who are being targeted . And I think it's time for football (and society as a whole) to acknowledge that players of color face added pressure when taking penalties . It's not just about the game; it's about mental health and self-care too.

Carter's story is a call to action - we need more education, awareness, and support systems in place for athletes who are being targeted by racism . Let's work together to create a more inclusive and supportive sports culture .

 

[Exuberan]

I'm so relieved that Jess Carter spoke out about what she went through, it's a huge step forward for her and for us as a society . I can imagine how scary it must've been to deal with that kind of abuse on the pitch, but Sarina Wiegman being there for her made all the difference . It's crazy to think about how added pressure we put on players of color when it comes to penalties - can't they just focus on scoring without all the extra stress? We need more support and understanding in football, but also in life, you know? Everyone deserves to feel seen and heard .

 

[Black Kung-fu Conne]

This is so disheartening to hear. I mean, you'd think that we'd be way further along by now in terms of equality and respect on the pitch. But it's not like Jess was alone - her manager had her back, which is what it should've been from the start.

And can we talk about how she's still dealing with anxiety and panic? That's no joke. I feel bad for the other girls on that team who didn't speak up when they saw her getting roasted by France fans. You'd think they'd want to help their teammate out, but I guess sometimes it takes one person to be brave enough to say something.

But here's the thing - Jess is still playing and doing amazing things. And we should be celebrating that, not just because of what she accomplished on the pitch, but because she's standing up for herself and her community in a place where they often feel unwelcome.

 

[Cruel Centi]

ugh i'm literally shaking with anger and sadness reading this jess carter is an absolute hero for speaking out about what she went through on that pitch. i mean can you even imagine having to face racist abuse from fans just because of your skin colour? it's heartbreaking that she felt isolated and alone after coming forward, but i'm so proud of her for being brave enough to share her story.

and let me tell you, as a black woman myself, i know how hard it is to deal with the added pressure of being a player of colour. the expectations are already high, and then you have to deal with all this extra stuff? it's not fair . i love that sarina wiegman was there for her, supporting her every step of the way. it just goes to show that we need more people like them in football, who can create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.

anyway, i'm just so done with racism and abuse in sports . let's get to work on creating a more positive and supportive community for all players. we deserve better

 

[Smoggy S]

Can you believe how hard it is for black players to compete in a sport that's supposed to be about skill and strategy? Like, Jess Carter's talking about how she had to filter out distractions just to take penalties... it's not even fair . And don't even get me started on the France fans who thought they could just abuse her and get away with it . I mean, what's next? Are we gonna start seeing players get booed for wearing the wrong socks or something? The whole thing is just so messed up...