NSW Blues forward Liam Martin has publicly condemned a disturbing message he received on social media following New South Wales’ narrow 26-24 loss to Queensland in Game 2 of the State of Origin series.
Martin took to Instagram late Wednesday night to expose the abusive message, sharing a screenshot and writing the caption:
“Don’t be like Beau” — referring to the individual who sent the tirade. The user labelled Martin “the biggest grub to ever hit New South Wales” and further claimed he was “a disgrace to rugby league” who should “never ever touch the football again.”
The message also contained a number of deeply offensive comments that were deemed too vile to republish by Fox Sports Australia.
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Martin’s post is the latest in a series of NRL players speaking out against online abuse, highlighting the growing issue of athlete harassment across social media platforms.
This follows a similarly disturbing incident involving Newcastle Knights winger James Schiller, who received a violent message after a win over Manly.
The sender not only hurled threats but also wrote:
“I will f***ing end your life.”
Authorities have since charged the individual with using a carriage service to menace, harass, or offend. He has been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Belmont Local Court on July 30.
These incidents have reignited calls within the rugby league community for stronger protections for players and accountability for online abusers.
Many fans and professionals have since rallied behind Martin and Schiller, condemning the toxic behaviour and urging the public to treat athletes with the respect and dignity they deserve.
