LONDON — British tennis star Heather Watson has revealed the extent of the social media abuse she has endured throughout her career, disclosing that she received her first death threat at just 18 years old. In a candid interview, Watson described the relentless online harassment she has faced, calling for greater accountability from platforms and stricter measures to protect athletes.
A Career Marred by Abuse
Watson, now 31, turned professional in 2009 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of Britain’s most promising players. However, her success on the court was overshadowed by a barrage of online vitriol. "It started almost as soon as I began competing at a high level," she said. "The first death threat came when I was 18, and it shook me to my core. I didn’t know how to handle it."
The abuse has been relentless, with Watson describing it as a "daily occurrence" during tournaments. She highlighted how the anonymity of social media emboldens trolls, making it easier for them to target athletes without consequence. "People say things online they’d never dare say to your face," she added.
The Psychological Toll
The constant negativity has taken a significant toll on Watson’s mental health. She admitted to struggling with anxiety and self-doubt, particularly after high-profile losses. "There were times when I’d avoid social media altogether because I knew what was waiting for me," she revealed. "But even then, friends or family would accidentally mention something hurtful they’d seen, and it would set me back."
Watson is far from alone in her experiences. A 2022 study by the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) found that:
- 68% of professional tennis players have faced online abuse
- 42% reported receiving threats of violence
- Women players are targeted 3 times more often than men
Calls for Change
Watson has joined a growing chorus of athletes demanding action from social media companies. "Platforms need to do more to protect users," she insisted. "Verification, stricter moderation, and real consequences for abusers—these are basic steps that could make a huge difference."
She also praised initiatives like the WTA’s partnership with AI-powered moderation tools, but stressed that more needs to be done. "It’s not just about filtering words—it’s about understanding context and intent. A lot of abuse slips through the cracks because it’s coded or indirect."
A Broader Issue in Sports
Watson’s experience reflects a wider problem in professional sports. High-profile athletes like Naomi Osaka, Marcus Rashford, and Simone Biles have also spoken out about the impact of online abuse. In 2021, British footballers Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford were subjected to racist abuse after missing penalties in the Euro 2020 final, prompting a national outcry.
Watson emphasized the need for solidarity among athletes. "We have to support each other and keep pushing for change. Silence only empowers the trolls." She also urged younger players to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed.
Moving Forward
Despite the challenges, Watson remains determined to use her platform for good. She has partnered with mental health charities and advocates for better support systems for athletes. "I don’t want the next generation to go through what I did," she said. "If sharing my story helps even one person, it’s worth it."
As for her own career, Watson is focused on the future. "I still love the game, and I’m not letting anyone take that away from me," she said with a smile. "But I’ll keep speaking up until things change."
The conversation around online abuse in sports is far from over, but voices like Watson’s are ensuring it stays in the spotlight. With continued pressure on platforms and governing bodies, there’s hope that the next generation of athletes will compete in a safer, more supportive environment.