NSW Blues Stars Face Widespread Online Abuse Following Origin Game 2

NSW Blues player Liam Martin has publicly condemned vile social media abuse he received following Queensland's 26-24 victory in State of Origin Game 2, sharing a disturbing message from a user named Beau who called him a "disgrace to rugby league" and made offensive personal attacks. Martin's response, "Don’t be like Beau," drew widespread support and highlighted the ongoing issue of online harassment faced by NRL players. His teammate Zac Lomax was also targeted with abusive comments, particularly over his goal-kicking performance in the close match. This incident follows a similar case involving Newcastle Knights winger James Schiller, who received death threats and homophobic abuse after his team's comeback win; police charged a 20-year-old man in connection with Schiller's harassment. The repeated online abuse incidents have raised concerns about player welfare and the need for stronger measures against digital harassment in rugby league. These cases underscore a troubling trend of toxic fan behavior on social media platforms directed at professional athletes.