Chelsea Manager and Players Condemn Homophobic Abuse Directed at Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis

Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor has expressed disbelief over the homophobic comments aimed at Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis following the couple’s announcement that they are expecting a baby.

Bompastor called the reactions “crazy” and unacceptable, particularly in 2024.

On Monday, Kerr, the Chelsea striker, shared the news of her pregnancy with Mewis, a West Ham midfielder, via Instagram, posting a photo of the couple with the caption: “Mewis-Kerr baby coming 2025!” However, some users responded with homophobic comments on the post.

“I just want to support Sam. I fully support her,” Bompastor said during a press conference ahead of Chelsea’s Champions League match against Celtic. “This is just unacceptable, especially in 2024. It’s crazy for me to understand how people can react like this.”

Bompastor emphasized her focus on supporting Kerr and Mewis, adding, “I want to focus on the positives and give all my support to Sam and Kristie. We are really proud and happy for them. As a mum, I can’t think of anything else. Becoming a mum is the best news you can have in your life.”

On Tuesday, Chelsea FC released a statement condemning the hateful comments, stating: “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. We are extremely proud to be a diverse, inclusive club that celebrates and welcomes people from all cultures, communities, and identities.”

Chelsea and England defender Millie Bright also spoke out in support of Kerr and Mewis, saying, “We’re really happy for them. Seeing the joy it brings for both of them—that’s what we’re put on earth for.” Bright added that negative comments would not deter the team, emphasizing that their focus is on spreading happiness and supporting each other.

Bright also called for stronger action from social media companies and football authorities in tackling abuse on online platforms. “There shouldn’t be any room in this world for comments like that,” she said. “Social media can be the best or the worst thing, and if I wasn’t a footballer, I’d come off social media in a heartbeat. It’s a shame because it should be a space to share memories and joys in life.”

She continued, “I want to share my family, but you always have that worry—‘are they going to get abused?’ You shouldn’t have to live like that. I don’t quite understand it.”