England WAG nearly skipped World Cup after 'disgusting' abuse from online trolls
Declan Rice's partner Lauren Fryer was reportedly on the verge of boycotting England's World Cup campaign after enduring appalling online abuse that left her deeply reluctant to step back into the public spotlight. Lauren was amongst the England WAGs supporting the Three Lions in the United States this week, yet friends have revealed the decision to attend was anything but straightforward following the relentless trolling she faced over her appearance.
According to The Daily Mail, Lauren had contemplated remaining at home and following England's fixtures on television instead of travelling to the World Cup, concerned she would once more become a target for online abuse. A source told the outlet: "Lauren was so scarred by the horrid and disgusting slurs she was subjected to that it was a miracle she made it to Boston. She loves watching Declan. She is the most loving and supportive partner, but the abuse devastated her."
The source claimed: "She didn't want to be seen, she didn't want to be recognised and there was a time when she just wanted to be at home and watch it on the television. But then the trolls would win, wouldn't they?".
Lauren became the victim of vicious social media abuse in late 2023, with anonymous users attacking her appearance and posting offensive remarks about her relationship with the Arsenal and England midfielder.
The trolling forced her to delete both her Instagram and X accounts, wiping photos from her social media profiles and retreating from the online spotlight. Those close to her say the ordeal continues to take its toll, and that she had hoped to visit the United States without being thrust into the spotlight.