Sam Kerr: Chelsea condemn 'hateful' homophobic abuse aimed at striker after baby announcement
Chelsea forward Sam Kerr and her partner, West Ham midfielder Kristie Mewis, shared the exciting news that they are going to become parents earlier this week. Following this announcement, Chelsea condemned the homophobic remarks directed at Kerr. Additionally, head coach Sonia Bompastor expressed her opposition to the abuse as well.
Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 5:46 PM, UK time.
Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor has shown her complete backing for Sam Kerr after the forward faced homophobic attacks online following the news that she and her partner, West Ham midfielder Kristie Mewis, are expecting a baby.
The 31-year-old captain of Australia, who has spent most of this year sidelined due to an ACL injury, shared the exciting news on Instagram Monday, announcing, "Mewis-Kerr baby arriving in 2025!"
It featured a photograph of the couple sharing a kiss while proudly displaying Mewis' baby bump.
Although many people were quick to offer their congratulations, they encountered what Chelsea referred to as "unacceptable and hateful comments of a homophobic nature."
After Kerr's original post was published, the number of comments on it was restricted.
During a speech on Tuesday, Bompastor expressed, "I’m here to stand by Sam completely. These remarks are intolerable, particularly in our society in 2024."
"It's hard to believe how some people respond to things like this. We’re thrilled for Sam and I’m really looking forward to welcoming the new baby into our Chelsea family!"
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Captain Mille Bright stated, "No matter if you're a football player or work in a different field, there should be no acceptance for comments like that in our society. Such behavior is unacceptable."
"I wish there was more action taken regarding this issue. If I weren't a football player, I would definitely leave social media without a second thought."
"We're excited to celebrate the wonderful occasion of two dear friends welcoming a new baby into their lives."
In a recent announcement, a representative from Chelsea stated: "Chelsea Football Club recognizes the recent inappropriate and hateful homophobic remarks that have appeared on different social media sites."
Discrimination has no place in our community, and we will not tolerate any mistreatment directed at our players, staff, or fans.
"We take great pride in being a club that embraces diversity and inclusivity, honoring and welcoming individuals from various cultures, communities, and backgrounds."
Wiegman: It's Truly Disappointing
The head coach of the England Women's team, Sarina Wiegman, expressed her backing for Kerr and Mewis.
She expressed her feelings by saying, "Sadly, that's just how things are in our society, even though it really shouldn't be that way. It's incredibly frustrating."
I'm truly excited for them, so congratulations! They seem really joyful, and I hope everything goes smoothly for them.
Chelsea Pride Denounces Abuse Aimed At Kerr After Baby News
Chelsea Pride, the supporter group for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies, also condemned the remarks as "hateful." They spoke out against the negative comments made on social media aimed at Kerr and Mewis, who became engaged last year.
"Hatred towards the LGBTQ+ community has no role in football, at Chelsea, or anywhere in our society," read a post on X.
It’s both painful and frustrating to witness social media overwhelmed with negative remarks when we ought to be embracing love, pride, and togetherness.
This past weekend and today, our club had to turn off comments and even remove some posts—posts that should have been celebratory highlights, like the meaningful message of Rainbow Laces and the exciting announcement that Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis are expecting a child in 2025.
"No to Hate" is more than just a phrase; it's a rallying call. It serves as a reminder that we need to continue striving for justice, genuine acceptance, and a game that welcomes all individuals without exclusions.
"We will not remain silent. At Chelsea Pride, we strongly oppose all forms of homophobia with determination and enthusiasm."
"We are striving for a football community where every player, supporter, and family can express themselves freely and be honored, free from fear and bias."
"This is our sport, our team, and our steadfast dedication. Hate won’t prevail in this space. We will always advocate for love, togetherness, and an inclusive future in football."
