Social media has become an essential showcase for athletes, a way to connect with fans and strengthen their public image. Yet that same exposure multiplies the risks: insults, threats, and added pressure that can destabilize even the most experienced competitors. The case of French wrestler Ibrahim Ghanem illustrates it clearly: after defeating Iranian opponent Seyed Sohrabi in a controversial bout at the Greco-Roman World Championships in Croatia, he received more than 7,000 abusive messages in just twenty minutes.

Research confirms that this digital pressure particularly affects younger generations. According to a report by the European Commission, 96% of 15-year-olds use social media daily, and over one third spend more than three hours online, often showing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Similarly, a study conducted by the Amsterdam University Medical Center with athletes aged 12 to 19 found that intensive use of social networks was linked to lower mood and increased anxiety.

The impact of digital consumption on health and athletic performance

Screen time affects not only emotional well-being but also body image. Recent studies in applied psychology warn that teenagers who spend two to three hours a day consuming sports-related content on social media are more likely to compare themselves to others, with negative effects on self-esteem. This pressure spills into the sporting arena, where self-perception directly influences confidence and performance.

It has also been documented that interacting on social media in the hours leading up to competition raises anxiety levels and reduces concentration. Sports psychologists note that negative comments received at such moments create distractions and mental fatigue that can directly affect athletic performance.

Ibrahim Ghanem, targeted with 7,000 abusive messages in 20 minutes

In Ghanem’s case, the online harassment was accompanied by physical incidents. According to the French Wrestling Federation, several unauthorized individuals entered the warm-up area after his fight, creating a hostile atmosphere. “Ibrahim was asked to turn off his phone until the final to protect him from the flood of messages,” explained Jean-Yves Robin, the federation’s national technical director.

The federation also contacted the embassy and local police, who stationed a patrol car outside the athlete’s hotel for the entire stay. In addition, a private transport service was arranged to minimize the risk of aggression. The situation shows how online abuse can quickly move beyond the digital sphere and pose a real threat to athletes’ safety.

International responses to online abuse in sport

Over the past year, cases of online abuse against athletes have multiplied. During the Women’s Euro 2025, UEFA identified nearly 1,900 offensive posts targeting players and teams. English footballer Jess Carter reported receiving racist insults on her social accounts during the tournament. In athletics, the international federation World Athletics has introduced artificial intelligence systems to filter abusive messages during major events such as the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Reports also warn that the problem remains far from solved. The United Against Online Abuse Barometer, published in 2025, concluded that over 90% of sports federations believe online abuse could drive athletes to quit their careers, with more than half of the abusive content identified being racist or misogynistic. In Spain, the National Sports Council has strengthened protocols against violence in high-performance centers, while the Royal Spanish Football Federation approved its first child and youth protection plan in 2023, addressing risks such as online abuse. Despite these advances, cases continue to multiply, underlining the urgent need for stronger measures and global solutions.