AFC Bournemouth striker Antoine Selorm Semenyo has broken his silence after racist abuse in the Cherries’ 2-4 loss to champions Liverpool in the first game of the 2025/26 English Premier League.
The winger was racially attacked by a fan captured in a wheelchair at Anfield.
The incident has already become a subject of investigation by authorities.
In a statement issued barely 24 hours after the incident, the Ghana striker said the incident will stay with him forever not because of the obvious “but because of how the entire football family stood together”.
He expressed gratitude to all, particularly players of both sides.
“To my Bournemouth teammates who supported me in that moment, to the Liverpool players and fans who showed their true character, to the Premier League who handled it professionally – thank you.
“Football showed its best side when it mattered most.”
Semenyo scored AFC Bournemouth’s two goals, cancelling the Reds’ 2-0 lead in the second half.
“Scoring those two goals felt like speaking the only language that truly matters on the pitch.
“This is why I play – for moments like these, for my teammates, for everyone who believes in what this beautiful game can be.”
He said the messages of support that have come in from across the world makes him love the sport.
“We keep moving forward, together,” he concluded.
