Junior Nsemba, a 22-year-old forward for Wigan Warriors and an emerging talent in English rugby league, has opened up about his experience with racial abuse ahead of England’s Rugby League World Cup opener against Tonga on Saturday.

Nsemba, whose parents emigrated from Cameroon before he was born, faced racist comments on social media following Wigan’s victory over St Helens at the Magic Weekend event earlier this year. The abuse prompted police intervention, leading to the arrest of a 56-year-old man.

Speaking publicly for the first time about the incident, Nsemba described the impact of the abuse on both himself and his family. “I don’t really know if I was angry... just upset, and really disappointed,” he said. “The way I’ve been brought up, if you’ve got a bad opinion then keep it to yourself.” He added that while he personally chose to ignore the vitriol, the comments affected his family more deeply, particularly his mother, who struggled to refrain from responding.

Nsemba highlighted the close relationship he shares with his family and the challenges they faced after witnessing the derogatory messages. “I always tell my mum to stay out of the comments and when she saw what happened, she had to really fight not to say something back,” he said. “I’m really proud of her for holding back because when I was reading it with her, I saw how it impacted her.” Reflecting on the nature of the attacks, Nsemba expressed confusion over such extreme hostility directed at a spectator sport. “You can be loved and hated on the rugby pitch but to possess that level of hate, I’ll never understand it.”

Despite the negative experience, Nsemba said the support he received from Wigan Warriors, including chief executive Kris Radlinski, as well as teammates and fans, has been vital in helping him move forward. The setback has, he said, strengthened his resolve to be a positive role model for young black athletes and to raise awareness about racism in sport.

As England prepares to begin its World Cup campaign, Nsemba remains focused on his performance on the field while using his platform to inspire and encourage respect and equality. His candidness sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by minority players in rugby league and their determination to confront prejudice both on and off the pitch.