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Mary Fowler Says She Faced Racism at Montpellier, Including Bananas Instead of Farewell Flowers

The allegations are detailed in a memoir released this week that has triggered new scrutiny of player welfare in the women's game.

Overview

  • Fowler recounts that after her final home game in 2022 she and teammate Ashleigh Weerden were overlooked in an on‑field farewell, then handed bananas in the dressing room while others received flowers.
  • She describes a wider pattern of differential treatment at Montpellier, including being reprimanded over routine matters and being pressed to play despite fatigue.
  • Fowler alleges her reports of chest pain were initially dismissed by club staff, with a brief check and medication offered and a physiotherapist later saying coaches believed she was faking.
  • Her memoir details severe mental‑health struggles during that period, including depression, self‑harm and seriously considering quitting football.
  • The claims have been widely reported since publication this week, and outlets say they have asked Montpellier for comment without a substantive public response so far.