British tennis player Heather Watson has disclosed she received her first death threat at 18, highlighting the “daily” social media abuse she faces.
Her comments follow similar revelations from Katie Boulter and calls for action from Sir Andy Murray against online harassment in sports.
Watson recounted the chilling experience, noting that friend Sloane Stephens normalized it by saying she “get[s] these all the time.” Despite the ongoing abuse, Watson now views it as “sad people who have nothing better going in their lives.”
The growing issue has prompted discussions about identity verification on social media, with the England women’s football team planning a social media boycott during their upcoming European Championship.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has also indicated the government will explore further protective measures.
