As the England women's football team, the Lionesses, gear up for their Euro 2025 campaign, they are making a collective decision to stay off social media to shield themselves from the relentless online abuse that plagues modern sports. This strategy, led by key players like Alessia Russo and Lauren James, aims to foster a focused and supportive environment as they defend their European Championship title in Switzerland.

The Impact of Social Media on Athletes

Alessia Russo, a prominent forward for Arsenal, shared her personal struggles with social media during major tournaments. "I think every player might have a different story about that side of the game but it's definitely one that can be really damaging," Russo explained. She recounted her experiences of being drawn into the negativity during her younger years, emphasizing that the only opinions that truly matter are those of her teammates, coaches, and family.

A Unified Approach

The Lionesses are not alone in this sentiment. Chelsea's Lauren James highlighted the pervasive nature of online abuse, stating, "The abuse never really stops." Whether it's related to their performance on the field or even a video game, the players are often subjected to harsh and unwarranted criticism. To combat this, many team members, including Manchester United's Grace Clinton and Chelsea's Kiera Walsh, have chosen to distance themselves from social media during the tournament.

Supporting the Next Generation

Experienced players like Russo and Manchester United's Ella Toone are also taking on the role of mentors, helping younger teammates navigate the challenges of online harassment. "We've always been the people that want to make sure the younger or less experienced players coming into the squad feel relaxed and feel OK," Toone added. Their goal is to create a supportive atmosphere where new talents can thrive without the added pressure of social media scrutiny.

The Bigger Picture

This move by the Lionesses is part of a broader conversation about the impact of social media on athletes' mental health. As they prepare for Euro 2025, the team's decision to avoid social media underscores the importance of mental well-being and team unity in achieving success on the international stage.