Breanna Stewart and her wife, Marta Xargay Casademont, received homophobic threats via email after a WNBA Finals game. The New York Liberty star highlighted the impact of the threats on their family, emphasizing the need for safety and condemning the hatred. The WNBA and law enforcement are actively involved, with the league taking steps to address online harassment and ensure player safety.
In the midst of the WNBA Finals, New York Liberty's Breanna Stewart and her wife, Marta Xargay Casademont, faced unsettling homophobic threats. These threats, received via email, have brought to light the ongoing issue of online harassment in sports and the personal safety concerns for athletes. The incident has prompted responses from the WNBA and law enforcement to address and mitigate these harmful actions.
Following the receipt of homophobic emails, Stewart and Xargay took immediate action by reporting the incident to the New York Liberty team and the WNBA, who escalated the issue to league security. The New York Police Department's Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating the threats as a serious bias incident. The couple's proactive steps underscore the gravity of the situation and their commitment to ensuring their family's safety amidst the finals' high stakes.
The WNBA has publicly condemned the homophobic threats, with Commissioner Cathy Engelbert emphasizing the league's commitment to player safety and mental health. The league is exploring technological solutions and partnerships with the players' union to combat online harassment more effectively. This incident has sparked a broader discussion on the safety measures necessary within sports leagues to protect athletes from hate speech and personal attacks.
Breanna Stewart expressed the personal toll these threats have taken on her and her family, particularly her wife, Marta. The couple, who are parents to two young children, have had to implement additional security measures to ensure their safety. Stewart's use of her platform to speak out against the harassment highlights the intersection of personal vulnerability and public visibility that athletes often face.
The homophobic threats against Breanna Stewart and her wife during the WNBA Finals are a stark reminder of the challenges that athletes face off the court. As the WNBA and law enforcement work to address these issues, it is crucial for sports leagues and the public to continue supporting inclusivity and safety for all players, ensuring that sports remain a space free of hatred and discrimination.
"For me to use this platform to let people know its unacceptable to bring to our sport." - Breanna Stewart