Players condemn cruel comments as Evans defends right to wear bows and makeup on the field

The Wales women’s rugby team have publicly backed Georgia Evans after the number eight faced a wave of online criticism over her appearance during the Rugby World Cup.

Evans, instantly recognisable for the pink bows she wears in her hair, became the subject of abuse when a promotional image posted by BBC Sport ahead of Wales’ defeat to Canada was met with negative comments on social media.

Breaking her silence on Monday, Evans posted a heartfelt statement in which she defended her right to express herself without it being tied to her sporting ability.

“The bows in my hair, the tape around my arm, the eyelashes and full face of make-up that I choose to wear has no bearing on my ability, my passion or fight for this game,” she wrote. “This will be the first and most likely the last time I speak out about it.”

Her words drew widespread support from within the squad, who addressed the issue at Tuesday’s media conference.

Prop Sisilia Tuipulotu was unequivocal: “I don’t think anyone should change who they are on or off the field. Georgia is a class player. It doesn’t matter if she has a bow in her hair or make-up on her face—she proves herself on the field and that’s all that matters. People don’t realise how much what they say can affect someone.”

Fly-half Kayleigh Powell echoed the sentiment, though admitted players were torn about how best to respond. “I 100% support the girls speaking out. If you don’t talk about it, nothing changes—but then you wonder if you’re giving the online abusers the attention they want. It makes me really sad that people choose to tear others down instead of just supporting the game.”

Full-back Nel Metcalfe described the abuse as “cruel” and said it was important to show solidarity. “At the end of the day we’re all people. It’s not acceptable. We stand with both Georgia and Lisa and hope they’re both OK.”

Metcalfe was referring also to Lisa Neumann, the Wales wing who recently shared screenshots of abuse she received after earning her 50th cap against Scotland.

The incidents have struck a chord with supporters, many of whom have brought signs to matches celebrating Evans’ trademark bows. Evans herself often hands the bows to fans after games, a gesture that has become part of her connection with the crowd.

Fans are expected to see even more bows on the field this weekend as a show of solidarity, when Wales take on Fiji in their final Pool B fixture in Exeter.

While Wales’ early exit from the tournament has already been confirmed, players say they remain determined to prove a point both on and off the pitch. For them, standing by Evans is about more than rugby—it is about respect, identity, and resilience in the face of abuse