Jess Carter expressed immense gratitude for the support of fans during England's Euro 2025 semi-final against Italy, following her experience of racial abuse. The Lionesses secured a 2-1 victory, maintaining their chance to defend their title, as Carter came on as a substitute during extra time. Fans chanted her name and applauded in solidarity, providing her with confidence to participate. England players decided to stop taking a knee before games to seek a more impactful way to combat racism, acknowledging the effectiveness of prior gestures was insufficient.
"It meant everything," Carter told BBC Sport of the crowd's response. "Without that I wouldn't have felt the confidence to come out on to the pitch."
"I'm not sure I would have had the courage to be available to support my team. They've allowed me to do that, so I can't be more grateful."
"The love I felt was incredible, so thank you so much," she expressed, urging fans to maintain their energy for every player in the future.
England's players said they decided to stop taking the knee because it was "clear we and football need to find another way to tackle racism."
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