England defender Jess Carter reflects on Gotham FC’s NWSL Championship celebrations in New York. She talks about her season, online abuse, and her plans to inspire young fans.
Jess Carter remembered a bright moment from Gotham FC’s NWSL Championship parade in Manhattan when she saw a young fan waving a sign for her partner, Ann-Katrin Berger, the club’s goalkeeper.
That sight made her think about how players can help young people feel seen and welcome, no matter who they are.
Carter described a busy year in which she won major trophies with both club and country, including titles with Gotham and England.
She said winning with teammates and fans made the hard work feel worth it and underlined how important the championships are to everyone involved.
After moving from Chelsea to Gotham, Carter said she quickly adjusted to the NWSL’s faster, more physical style of play.
She added that the league’s pace means players must stay sharp, because mistakes can cost a team at any moment.
Carter spoke about experiencing racist abuse online during the European Championship and how that led her to step back from social media for a time.
She shared that with help from family and teammates she found the strength to speak up and push for change in the sport.
After speaking out, Carter received messages of support as well as criticism, and she said accountability is key to building a safer, fairer game.
Two men were later arrested in connection with the abuse she faced, which Carter saw as a move toward justice.
With Gotham preparing for the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, Carter said she is excited to show the talent in women’s football on a global stage.
She plans to take a short break to visit family before returning to training and wants to keep inspiring young fans by being herself and following her goals.
