"It's just toxic everywhere" - Tyler Adams fires back as USMNT stars are racially abused at Copa America 2024

USMNT midfielder Tyler Adams opened up on the racist abuse suffered by him and his teammates following the side's 2-1 loss to Panama in Copa America 2024. The Bournemouth star suggested that receiving abuse of this nature has become normalized, pointing to the toxic nature of social media.

He said (via the Daily Echo):

“I don't really know where to even begin on the topic. It's normal at this point - it's normal. I don't think anyone could play a bad game, let alone a good game, and not have something on social media afterwards.

“So for me personally, I don't even use social media - not for that specific reason, but just for the fact that it's just toxic everywhere, no matter where you look."

He went on to add:

"It's disappointing when players on our team obviously have faced that, Canadian players, whoever it is. It's just so unnecessary and unneeded in the space of football because football brings so many positive moments for everybody.

"Everybody loves the game for so many different reasons. And the fact that we´ve allowed this to creep into the game, it's just horrible."

A statement was released by the US Soccer Federation after the game, recognising and condemning the racist comments made against Adams and other players online after the game.

A similar incident occurred earlier this week when Canada defender Moise Bombito was also at the receiving end of abuse following their match against Argentina. The country's football governing body put out a statement, saying they had contacted the CONCACAF and the CONMEBOL over the incident.

How has the USMNT fared at Copa America 2024?

It has been a difficult tournament for the USMNT.

USA are preparing to face Uruguay in their final match of Group C action. Gregg Berhalter's side are going into the game needing a positive result against the group toppers to qualify for the knockout stages of Copa America 2024.

They began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Bolivia but then lost their second game to Panama 2-1. They are tied with Panama on three points heading into the last matchday.

The USMNT face a tough task in their final clash against a Uruguay side who have arguably been the best team in the tournament. Having scored eight goals in their two games while letting in only one, Marcelo Bielsa's men will prove to be a difficult opposition for the team who may exit the tournament in the group stages.