Female athletes are being disproportionately targeted with online abuse, with 87 percent of cyberattacks during the recent Olympic Games directed at women athletes which included sexual harassment, body shaming, sexist remarks and creating a hostile digital environment for women in sports.
This was revealed by Super Rugby commentator and former Fijiana 15s captain Leilanie Burnes during the Safer Internet Day 2025.
She says while social media helps athletes stay connected, it also exposes them to extreme criticism.
Burnes says 65 percent of the abusive posts aimed at women athletes were so severe that social media platforms had to intervene.
She says given the toxicity, she has learned to set strong emotional and mental boundaries, choosing to block or ignore hateful comments rather than engage with it.
She further says she also limits her time on social media before and after any matches to maintain focus and protect her mental health.
She also surrounds herself with a strong support system, knowing that those who stand by her will defend her when she chooses not to respond.
Burnes says despite the constant attacks, she is determined to use her platform to elevate women in sports.
She adds that she wants to ensure that female athletes are recognised for their dedication and success rather than subjected to abuse.
