Football Condemns Racist Abuse Towards Semenyo; Bournemouth, Liverpool React as Player Addresses Incident

Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo Targeted by Racial Abuse at Anfield

Bournemouth captain Adam Smith has slammed the alleged racist abuse directed at teammate Antoine Semenyo during a 4-2 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield. The incident occurred early in the Premier League opener when a fan reportedly hurled racial slurs at Semenyo as he prepared for a throw-in. Despite the abuse, Semenyo scored twice in the second half, though Liverpool ultimately secured victory with a late winner from Mo Salah.

Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo faced racist abuse during the match.

Outrage and Support
Semenyo later shared a screenshot on Instagram of a user sending monkey emojis under his post, captioning it, “When will it stop?” Smith expressed shock at the incident, calling it “unacceptable in this day and age” and praised Semenyo’s resilience. “To carry on playing and score twice shows his strength,” Smith told Sky Sports. “The Liverpool players and staff were supportive, but stronger action is needed. Taking a knee isn’t enough anymore.”

Referee Anthony Taylor paused the game in the 28th minute after Semenyo reported the abuse. Police escorted the alleged perpetrator—a fan in a wheelchair—out of the stadium, with an investigation ongoing.

Play was halted as officials addressed the incident (left: Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola; right: Liverpool’s Arne Slot).

Pundits and Managers Condemn Abuse
Sky Sports pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher condemned the incident. Neville called it “despicable,” while Carragher emphasized the failure of anti-racism campaigns. Liverpool boss Arne Slot apologized, stating, “Anfield is no place for hate. It overshadowed our tribute to Diogo Jota.”

Bournemouth manager Iraola stressed collective responsibility: “We’ve taken steps forward, but this drags us back. Everyone, including Liverpool, agrees such behavior doesn’t belong here.”

Semenyo’s brace briefly leveled the score before Liverpool’s comeback.

Official Responses
The Premier League and Liverpool FC released statements supporting Semenyo and vowing to combat discrimination. Merseyside Police confirmed an investigation, and social media erupted with condemnation from fans.

Fans demanded accountability online, echoing calls for stricter stadium bans and education.

Moving Forward
Smith highlighted the emotional toll on Semenyo, urging systemic change: “Statements aren’t enough—action is needed.” As football grapples with recurring racism, this incident underscores the urgent need for accountability to ensure stadiums remain inclusive for all.

Semenyo received support from teammates and rivals alike.

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