The U.S. men’s national soccer team’s 2-1 upsetting loss against Panama in the Copa America tournament on Thursday took an ugly turn that night as some of the Black players were targeted with racist abuse on social media after the defeat.
The abuse was so widespread that men’s national team released a statement after the game, admonishing the racist and hateful comments hurled at some of the players.
U.S. Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players. pic.twitter.com/QayH6AY7ji
— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) June 28, 2024
The team didn’t identify which team members were targeted, but forward Folarin Balogun, 22, and defender Chris Richards, 24, shared some of the hateful messages they received on their individual Instagram accounts.
More on the racist abuse aimed at the U.S. men’s soccer team.
J.E. Stone is a contributing blogger and sports fanatic who covers daily news, and explores the intersections of pop culture and professional sports. NFL, NBA, MLB, PGA, MLS, MMA, UFC, WWE, AEW… virtually no three-letter sports brand is safe. He’s also a gamer who will take any challenge. Follow him on Discord.