Owen Farrell decision a 'wake-up call,' says Wales coach Gatland

Warren Gatland and Owen Farrell pictured during a Lions training sessionColorsport/Shutterstock

Warren Gatland coached Owen Farrell on three British and Irish Lions tours in 2013, 2017 and 2021

Wales coach Warren Gatland believes Owen Farrell's decision to step away from international rugby should be a "wake-up call for all of us".

The England captain, 32, has made himself unavailable for the 2024 Six Nations "to prioritise his and his family's mental wellbeing".

Gatland has also revealed the abuse suffered by himself and his family.

"In many ways Owen's decision represents a watershed moment for the game," he told the Daily Telegraph.

"It is a sad day for rugby and a sad day for sport to see someone of Owen's standing in the game have to make the decision to walk away from the international stage just to protect his family.

"But, ironically in making his decision, it might be the best thing for the game in that it will highlight some of the terrible things that are happening in rugby, particularly on the social media front."

Gatland, 60, is in his second spell in charge of Wales and has also coached Ireland and the British and Irish Lions.

The New Zealander said in his Daily Telegraph column (external paywall site) he had also received "sinister" messages that had made him wonder whether "maybe it was time to walk away".

"I am largely protected from the abuse because I am not on social media, but my family are, and they see things and it can seep through," he said.

"And, for a few years now I have been targeted by a troll who managed to get hold of my mobile phone number and has been sending me smart, snidey comments."

In the column Gatland said the messages kept coming even after he tracked down the identity of the sender and replied to one of them earlier this year, letting the man know he was aware of who he was and who he worked for.

He also revealed abuse directed at his son Bryn, a professional player in Super Rugby.

Gatland said the poster 'didn't care' if his son woke up the following morning and "as a father that one was hard to take".

Gatland said he was raising the issue because the abuse is "unacceptable" and hopes others within the sport can stand up to the "trolls".

"Ultimately the rugby community cares about people and I think it is time for the vast majority of us who are disgusted about what is happening to stand up for each other a bit more, or if you see something online that is out of order, shoot it down," he said.

"It is time for the silent majority to become the loud majority and call out these people."

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