Lucy Bronze of England: In women’s football the online abuse seems to get worse

England -defender Lucy Bronze said that the growth of women’s football had led to an increase in racist abuse against players, because the game attracts more and more fans and the spotlight is being strengthened.

Bronze, who was the key to the quarterfinals of England on Sweden on Euro 2025 on Thursday, held an emotional press conference after teammate Jess Carter, who is black, announced that she was the target of racist abuse since the tournament began.

«The bigger the game becomes, the bigger the sound becomes, the more fans there are, but the more critics there are,» said Bronze.

“We are clearly open to critics – that’s why we love sport – but we are not open to abuse. Especially in women’s football, online abuse seems to get worse.

“We see it more in the stadiums in men’s football and online, but I think there seems to be a real target with women’s football online.

«It is something we are very aware of. There is a way to make a change. There is a solution. I have no answer, but I am sure there is one.»

Bronze was asked if the abuse that Carter had received, other young black players would make you think twice about playing for England.

«I hope those players know that, regardless of what they are going through, they are supported by this team, that we do not approve these actions, that we want to stand up for change, not only in football, but in society, that those young players can grow up and heroes and legends of an England -» she said.

«We create an environment where those players can thrive are who they want to be, you can come from any background, every environment and you can represent England as the highest stage.»

England plays Italy in the semi -final on Tuesday in Geneva.