Mathys Tel Stands Strong Against Racist Abuse in Football
Tottenham's Mathys Tel addresses racist abuse with resilience and calls for respect in football.



Tottenham's young forward, Mathys Tel, has shown remarkable resilience in the face of racist abuse following a recent Uefa Super Cup match. Despite the adversity, Tel remains steadfast, emphasizing that such actions will not deter his spirit or his commitment to the sport.
The Incident
After a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout loss where Tottenham let a two-goal lead slip, Tel, who came on as a substitute in the 79th minute, was one of the players who missed a crucial penalty. The aftermath saw the 20-year-old Frenchman targeted with racist messages on social media.
Tottenham's Response
Tottenham Hotspur expressed their disgust at the abuse, labeling the perpetrators as 'cowards.' The club has been vocal in its support for Tel, who joined them permanently from Bayern Munich this summer.
Tel's Statement
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Tel thanked fans for their overwhelming support. 'I was disappointed about Wednesday night, but racism has no place in our society. Every day is a learning curve, and every day is a lesson,' he stated. Tel also emphasized the importance of humility and respect, values he holds dear.
Broader Context
This incident is not isolated. Recently, Bournemouth player Antoine Semenyo also faced racist abuse during a Premier League match against Liverpool. The game was briefly halted as Semenyo reported the incident to the referee, leading to an arrest by Merseyside Police.
Call to Action
Tel's experience underscores the ongoing issue of racism in football. It is a call to action for the football community to unite against such hatred and to foster an environment of respect and inclusivity.
Related Topics: Premier League, Tottenham Hotspur, Football