Equestrian: Riding icon Werth on social media: 'We have stalkers'

Equestrian Olympic champion Isabell Werth has voiced strong criticism of the current internet discussion culture, describing it as a "sick world." The 57-year-old athlete stated that even mentioning "quality" in relation to horses now triggers negative reactions on social media.

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The word quality in connection with horses, I can no longer say today without triggering reactions on social media. It's a sick world now.

Werth believes that 80 to 90 percent of her fellow riders share her sentiment, often dealing with "stalkers" who seek to portray them negatively. She contrasted this with the appreciation received from outside the traditional equestrian community, noting that many outside observers are unaware of these online disputes.

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I believe that 80 to 90 percent of my colleagues feel the same way. We have stalkers who just want to create a bad image.

Addressing the debate around whether equestrian sports constitute animal cruelty, Werth acknowledged the positive shift in society's view of horses, stating they are better treated now than in the past. However, she cautioned against elevating animals above humans.

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The position of the horse in society has completely changed, and that's a good thing. Our horses are doing much better today than before, better than a large part of the people in this world.

Werth called for regulation of social media platforms, highlighting the detrimental impact of online bullying and aggression on many young people. She believes such regulation would be beneficial across all sectors.

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I believe that regulation of social media in all areas would be healthy. Because I know and notice how many young people are very hurt by it, because they are bullied and aggressively attacked. That is an absolute disadvantage.