"I'd Rather Laugh": Table Tennis Star Annett Kaufmann Addresses Death Threats and Social Media Toxicity

German table tennis star Annett Kaufmann speaks out against death threats and online hate ahead of the 2026 World Championships in London.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 6:09 AM EDT

The Shadow Over London 2026

As the German national team prepares for its opening World Team Championship match against France this Saturday, the conversation has shifted from tactical preparation to the safety of its rising star. Annett Kaufmann, widely considered the future of European table tennis, revealed to news agency dpa that she has been the target of sustained digital harassment. The abuse has escalated from standard criticism to criminal behavior, including explicit death threats and sexist vitriol. This development has shocked many in a sport traditionally known for its sportsmanship and mild-mannered atmosphere.

A "Sofa" Perspective on Hate

Kaufmann’s approach to the abuse is one of psychological distance and intellectual dismissal. "I always imagine it like this—someone is sitting on the sofa, watching me play and saying to themselves, 'I'll show her now.' I'd rather laugh at people like that," she stated. The 19-year-old argued that the anonymity of the internet provides a false sense of bravery, asserting that those sending threats would never have the courage to repeat them to her face. By framing the hate as a reflection of the writer's character rather than her own performance, Kaufmann aims to neutralize the emotional impact of the messages.

Beyond the "Sparkle and Glitter"

A major motivation for Kaufmann’s decision to speak out is to dismantle the public perception of professional sports. She noted that while many fans see the "sparkle and glitter" of the podium, few understand the mental toll of the public eye. "It is important to me that this issue gets a lot of attention," she emphasized, pointing out that even junior world champions are not insulated from the darker corners of social media. Her goal is to bring the reality of online toxicity into the mainstream sports discourse, urging fans to recognize the human cost of digital abuse.