Worldwide exposure comes with its share of challenges for professional tennis players and athletes.
During the US Open, several WTA athletes have raised concerns about the negative effects of this overexposure, highlighting the threats and insults they often face on social media platforms.
Naomi Osaka catches the eye with her spectacular dress at the US Open
The conversation gained traction after French tennis player Caroline Garcia spoke out about the hate messages she received following her loss to Mexican player Renata Zarazúa in her US Open debut.
Garcia took to social media to expose the harsh reality that many athletes endure, aiming to raise awareness of this ongoing issue.
“Maybe you think it doesn’t hurt us. But it does. We are human. And sometimes when we receive these messages, we are already emotionally destroyed after a tough defeat. They can be damaging. Many before me have raised the issue, and still, no progress has been made,” Garcia shared in her heartfelt statement.
The role of sports betting in online harassment
Garcia also addressed the connection between sports betting and the abusive messages athletes receive. She expressed concern over the close association between tournaments and betting companies, which can lead to unhealthy gambling habits.
While Garcia acknowledged that people have the right to spend their money as they choose, she questioned whether promoting betting was wise, particularly given the legal consequences of such behavior in public. She further called for a reconsideration of online anonymity.
“Why is it that on the internet we are free to do whatever we want?”
Garcia shared several hateful comments she received, including messages urging her to commit suicide and attacking her personally.
“I know that those who write these terrible messages will not change because of this,” she said.
“But maybe the next time you see a post from an athlete, singer, or any other person who has failed or lost, remember that he or she is also a human being trying to do the best he or she can in life.”
Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula join the debate on social media abuse
Other prominent players, including world No. 1 Iga Swiatek and American Jessica Pegula, voiced their support for Garcia and shared their own experiences with online harassment. Swiatek expressed her concerns about the safety of athletes on social media, emphasizing the need for education and possible solutions in the future.
She also suggested using AI technology to make online spaces safer for athletes.
“It would be good if we all follow in Caro’s footsteps, try to educate people, or maybe hope for some solutions in the future,” Swiatek said.
“I feel like we can’t be on the internet and feel safe anymore. You have to be very careful what you read.”
Swiatek admitted that she avoids certain online spaces to protect herself from hateful messages. Although she acknowledged that the excitement of gambling might play a role in these negative behaviors, she noted that she hasn’t conducted any research into the topic.
Jessica Pegula’s experience with social media threats
American tennis player Jessica Pegula also opened up about the abuse she has faced online, particularly during tournaments. After her second match in New York, Pegula revealed that she disables messaging features on her social media accounts to avoid receiving hateful comments.
“I don’t let anyone send me messages during tournaments,” Pegula explained.
“I feel bad for my grandparents, who go on my Instagram and see those messages. The girl who runs my social media for me spoke to me worried one day because I was getting death threats. That’s totally normal for me.
“If you block them, they make new accounts. On Instagram, it’s worse than on Twitter.”
Pegula highlighted the alarming reality that athletes often face threats from angry gamblers, underscoring the need for better protections and accountability on social media platforms.