Lauren Fryer, partner of England midfielder Declan Rice, attended a recent England match with the couple's second child, a development that had been kept private. The couple, both 27, also have a three-year-old son, Jude. Their representatives declined to comment on the baby's gender.
Fryer's presence at the match marked a significant step, given her past struggles with online abuse targeting her appearance. According to an England insider, Fryer was scarred by "horrid and disgusting slurs" from social media trolls and rival football fans, which she has found difficult to overcome. This led to a period where she hesitated to attend matches, preferring to watch from home to avoid judgment.
The abuse reportedly began in December 2023, when an anonymous account criticized Rice, stating he "could do better" than Fryer. The comments targeted her natural appearance, contrasting with what is often perceived as the typical "WAG" aesthetic. The abuse escalated to include misogynistic chants directed at Rice during matches. In response to the harassment, Fryer deleted her social media accounts, including Instagram and X, and has not returned.
Friends have described Fryer as a "breath of fresh air" and an "anti-WAG" for not conforming to the attention-seeking persona sometimes associated with partners of footballers. Despite the challenges, Fryer remains a supportive partner to Rice, who is reportedly protective of her and angered by the cruelty she has faced.
Fryer was previously seen in public at a celebration for Arsenal's Premier League win in May, where she joined Rice and their son Jude on the pitch. This appearance was her first since the Euros in Germany in 2024. The couple are described as popular and a strong unit. Fryer worked as a make-up artist before the birth of their son Jude.
Rice himself has been seen in social settings, including with TV star James Corden and former West Ham footballer Mark Noble. Corden, who is described as being like a "big brother" to Rice, reportedly deplores social media trolling. Radio DJ Roman Kemp, an Arsenal fan and mental health advocate, has also shown support.
Fryer's attendance at the recent match was selective, with reports suggesting she did not attend earlier games in Dallas and may not attend future ones, possibly due to managing two young children. Despite her discretion, sources indicate that other WAGs are supportive and saddened by what Fryer has endured.