Following her defeat to Loïs Boisson, which marked her exit from the French Open, Jessica Pegula took to social media to voice her frustration with the online backlash she received. Her post, shared on Instagram Stories, was a direct response to the torrent of negative comments and threats.
Pegula’s post highlighted the intense scrutiny faced by athletes in tennis, with many online commentators attacking her for the loss. The comments were not only harsh but also personal, with some suggesting she was a ‘trash’ player or that her family should suffer. Pegula, who is the daughter of Terry and Kim Pegula, owners of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres, has also faced similar threats in the past, including during the NHL season.
She pointed out that while other sports deal with some level of criticism, the scale and nature of the threats in tennis are much more severe. ‘I get told my family should get cancer and die from people here on a regular basis,’ she added. The comments are not just about performance but also seem to target the athletes’ personal lives and backgrounds.
The issue of harassment in sports is one that has been increasingly highlighted in recent years, particularly in tennis. Other athletes, such as Arthur Bouquier and Caroline Garcia, have also spoken out about the threats they receive. Pegula’s post serves as a reminder that the pressure to perform at the highest level in sports comes with a unique set of challenges.
For Pegula, the decision to stay active on social media despite the risks is not only professional but also personal. Her sponsorship deals rely heavily on her online presence. However, the constant threat of harassment has made it difficult to enjoy the tournament without the fear of negative comments and threats.
The conversation around online harassment in sports is ongoing, and Pegula’s comments have added to the discussions. With the rise of social media platforms, the line between public feedback and private threats is becoming increasingly blurred. As the sports world grapples with this issue, players like Pegula are at the forefront of the conversation, calling for greater awareness and support for those affected by online abuse.