Norway striker Alexander Sorloth has become the latest player to suffer online abuse during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after revealing he received messages telling him to take his own life following his country’s heartbreaking quarter-final defeat to England.

The Atletico Madrid forward was heavily criticised on social media after Norway’s dramatic 2-1 extra-time loss to Thomas Tuchel’s side on Saturday, a result that ended the Scandinavian nation’s impressive World Cup campaign.

According to Reuters, Sorloth was subjected to abusive messages, including death threats and comments encouraging him to commit suicide, highlighting the growing issue of online harassment directed at footballers during major international tournaments.

The 29-year-old played a key role in helping Norway reach the quarter-finals for the first time in their history but became a target for frustrated supporters after the narrow defeat to England.

Sorloth’s ordeal adds to a worrying trend at the tournament, with several players from different nations reporting abuse on social media following defeats or disappointing performances.

Football governing bodies, including FIFA, have repeatedly condemned online harassment and continue to work with social media platforms to identify and sanction those responsible for abusive posts targeting players.

The incident has once again reignited calls for stronger measures to combat online hate, with players, clubs and football associations urging fans to support athletes respectfully, regardless of results.

Despite the painful exit, Norway’s World Cup campaign earned widespread praise, with Sorloth playing a significant role in the team’s historic run to the last eight.