The police are currently looking into the online harassment directed at Sophia Havertz, the wife of Arsenal forward Kai Havertz.
She showcased various distressing direct messages on her social media platforms following Arsenal’s exit from the FA Cup after a match against Manchester United last Sunday.
According to a spokesperson for Hertfordshire Constabulary, a report regarding malicious communication concerning a resident in Hertfordshire was filed on January 12, and investigations are actively ongoing.
Arsenal faced a defeat against the reigning Cup champions, Manchester United, managing to reach a penalty shootout after a tie, with Kai Havertz unable to convert a significant chance in regular play and subsequently missing a shot in the penalty round.
On Monday, Sophia posted two alarming messages on her Instagram story, one of which included a disturbing threat against her unborn child.
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has called for decisive measures to tackle such unacceptable behavior.
He expressed his astonishment, stating, “It’s beyond belief. We really need to address this issue because ignoring it could have dire outcomes.
It’s something we must root out from our sport as it reflects an appallingly cynical mentality that hinges on the outcome of a game. No other industry faces this kind of challenge.”
FIFA has responded to the increasing problem of online abuse by launching a Social Media Protection Service aimed at safeguarding players, teams, and officials from hate-filled content on their platforms.
Last year, the Football Association in England allocated approximately £25,000 (around $31,000) to assist police in their efforts to combat such incidents, particularly during the European Championship.
The previous UEFA Euro in 2021 witnessed England players Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho facing severe racial abuse on social media, following their missed penalties in the final against Italy.
The increasing scrutiny and response to online abuse highlight a growing commitment within the sport to protect individuals from digital vitriol.
