The image of Paula Dapena sitting with her back to the center of the field of the sports city of Abegondo, in A Coruña, breaking the line formed by his teammates during a minute of silence in memory of Diego Armando Maradona, before a friendly of his team, Viajes EntreRías Fútbol Femenino, against Deportivo Abanca, has traveled the world .
This footballer from Pontevedra has explained in different media that, as a feminist, she did not feel comfortable having to pay homage to Maradona, a person accused of assaulting his partner. “Thursday was 25-N, Elimination Day against Gender Violence, not a minute of silence was observed. Then to celebrate and pay tribute to a player like Maradona, who has signs of violence and pedophilia, I didn’t feel comfortable “, Paula explained.
Although the young athlete knew that her gesture would not please everyone, especially Maradona fans, it was not expected thatand they would threaten him with death. Paula Dapena says she has had to close her social networks after receiving messages such as: “Daughter of a bitch, dirty fat, I’ll rape you … I’ll find your address and go to your house to break your legs”, she related.
He acknowledges that “some harassment was expected, but not such threats.” Even the Argentine media have ridiculed her: “Her team lost 10-0 … the number ‘Ten’ present. And this girl’s last name is eloquent: ‘Dapena’.” It’s a pity in this case her attitude, “they said on television.
Although the athlete says the media pressure is being a bit overwhelming, “I would do it once and a thousand times.” “I speak for myself and for many colleagues. I think to be a good player you have to have values above football. Maradona was an abuser, we can’t forget that. I don’t criticize him for taking drugs. There are a lot of footballers, singers, actors, actresses who have done it, but here they are hurting themselves. The moment you cross the line to hurt other people is when I no longer consider them a reference. “
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