'I was super scared to play' - Jess Carter makes heartbreaking admission after Lionesses beat Spain to win Euro 2025 final

Earlier this month, the defender took to social media to outline the abuse she had received during the Women's Euro 2025, and announced her intention to step back from social media platforms. Carter wrote that while she accepts criticism of her performances, she draws the line at messages that "target someone's appearance or race".

Despite her anxieties, Sarina Wiegman fielded the 27-year-old in her starting line-up alongside captain Leah William at centre-back. The duo did exceptionally well and played a key role in the Lionesses winning back-to-back European titles.

Speaking to reporters, Carter said: "I'm more disappointed in myself over previous performances than anyone else. I was super scared to play today, which is the first time in my life. Then when I woke up this morning and saw my team and the support that I had from my team-mates, my family and my manager, I knew I had to come out today and give it my all. That's all you can do."

The defender will be back in action in club football on August 2 as Gotham FC take on Chicago Stars in an NWSL clash.