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Cain Slams Social Media Abuse Impact on Women's Football

BBC Sport Football •
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Wales forward Hannah Cain has revealed how persistent social media abuse affects female players' mental health, describing some messages as 'really ugly'. The Leicester City striker spoke out after receiving abusive messages 'after pretty much every game' for her club during a difficult Women's Super League season.

Cain, who has scored five goals in 22 Wales appearances, explained that the abuse became overwhelming despite her and the team not playing poorly. The 27-year-old said people forget footballers 'are actual humans' and that abuse affects players' lives away from the pitch, including family members. She posted on social media that 'enough is enough' following abuse from people 'hiding behind a keyboard'.

The forward says she will use her platform to prevent further abuse, noting that speaking out causes people to delete negative comments. Cain emphasized that while people can get carried away with emotions, they need reminders that social media abuse can have serious effects on mental health.