Borussia Dortmund’s appearances in the Champions League this season will be regularly followed by TV expert Tabea Kemme. The former national player will also be in action for “Prime Video” in BVB’s round of 16 first leg at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday (9:00 p.m.) – and reports in advance about the bad reactions she encountered during her work.
“As a woman, death threats, sexual violence and hate messages are my daily business in the business of men’s football,” said Kemme in an interview with “Ruhr Nachrichten”.
The 32-year-old made it clear that she wasn’t interested in “convincing people with my expertise.” “I bring my 14 years of experience on the pitch into the TV broadcast and try to give viewers an insider’s view, a wide variety of perspectives on the game and the dynamics.”
After all: Kemme also receives positive feedback. “In addition to the shitstorm, I also encounter a lot of appreciative comments from colleagues and fans of different clubs. As an optimist in life, I don’t let the negativity of some people stop me,” said the 2016 Olympic champion.
Criticism of “narrow-mindedness” after BVB decision
BVB also faced criticism and skepticism when it brought two new assistants, ex-professionals Nuri Sahin and Sven Bender, into its coaching team in the winter. Many observers said that the club was secretly preparing to replace head coach Edin Terzic.
Kemme cannot understand these prophecies of doom. The signing of Sahin and Bender is “an absolute win” for BVB, especially with regard to training. “The fact that it leads to discussions shows the narrow-mindedness of these opinion leaders towards change in today’s world,” she emphasized.
Kemme described the inconsistency at BVB, which is also often criticized, as “part of the game” in competitive sports. “Every competition has its own special features. It takes a lot to be able to give 100 percent performance,” explained the 157-time Bundesliga player.