AFP, LONDON
Chelsea on Tuesday condemned homophobic abuse directed toward star striker Sam Kerr after she and her fiancee, US international Kristie Mewis, announced they were expecting a baby.
The 31-year-old Australia captain made the announcement on social media alongside pictures of the couple.
In response, they faced what Chelsea described as “unacceptable and hateful homophobic comments.”
Chelsea’s Sam Kerr, left, poses with girlfriend Kristie Mewis in London on May 15, 2022.Photo: AP
Photo: AP
“There is no place in society for any form of discrimination and we will not accept any abuse directed towards our players, staff or supporters,” the Women’s Super League club said in a statement. “We are extremely proud to be a diverse, inclusive club that celebrates and welcomes people from all cultures, communities and identities.”
Chelsea women’s coach Sonia Bompastor called the abuse “crazy,” but said she is focusing on supporting Kerr.
“This is just unacceptable to have these kinds of comments, especially in 2024,” Bompastor said at a pre-match news conference ahead of yesterday’s UEFA Women’s Champions League match against Celtic. “It’s just crazy for me to understand how people can react like this.”
“I just want to focus on the positives and give all my support to Sam and Kristie. We are really proud and really happy for them,” she said. “As a mum I cannot think about anything else. As a woman, to have the opportunity to become a mum, that’s the best news you can have in your life.”
Chelsea Pride, an LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, said it had been “heartbreaking and infuriating” to see so many hateful comments online.
England women’s coach Sarina Wiegman wished Kerr and West Ham midfielder Mewis, who were engaged last year, well in the face of the backlash.
“Unfortunately that is part of our world I guess, which it should not be,” Wiegman said. “Very, very disappointing. I’m really happy for them so congratulations. I hope they are really happy, they look really happy and I hope everything goes well.”
