In his memoir, the former footballer discusses the traumatic incident and its lasting impact on his life
Category: Health
Andy Carroll, the former Premier League striker, has revealed that he was sexually assaulted by a male celebrity friend of his ex-wife at his home in 2021. This shocking admission comes from Carroll's newly published autobiography, Owning It, released in September 2026. The incident, which occurred during his time playing for Newcastle United, has left a lasting mark on the athlete's life.
In the memoir, Carroll describes a traumatic evening when he invited the acquaintance over to watch a boxing match. He shared that he had initially felt uneasy about the man, who had previously bombarded him with messages. Carroll stated, "Something happened to me a few years ago that was so traumatic, I only decided to include it in this book at the very last minute. I was sexually assaulted, there I said it. Scary to even think about and only a few people knew about it before now." He hopes that his openness will help others who have experienced similar situations.
The assault unfolded after Carroll, having had a few drinks, decided to go to bed. He was awakened by the man attempting to sexually assault him under the duvet. In a moment of panic and fear for his safety, Carroll punched the attacker and called the police. He recounted, "I jump up and shout, 'What the f*** are you doing?'" After the incident, Carroll feared he might have killed the man, saying, "I'm sobbing in the nanny's arms and she's trying to comfort me... What if I've killed him?" Fortunately, the police arrived, and the assailant was arrested.
Following a lengthy two-year legal process, the abuser was found guilty and sentenced to three years in prison. He was also placed on the National Sex Offender Register and banned from entering the village where Carroll lived at the time. Carroll has expressed gratitude for the support he received from his current girlfriend, Lou Teasdale, who has been a source of comfort throughout his ordeal. He noted, "Lou and I spent a lot of time debating whether to mention the incident in my memoir. But it's made the person I am today as much as any of the good stuff. If me talking about it helps just one person then good it will have been worth it."
Carroll's experience sheds light on the often-hidden struggles faced by survivors of sexual assault. The stigma surrounding such incidents can lead individuals to remain silent, fearing disbelief or shame. Carroll's decision to share his story in his autobiography shows the value of breaking this silence. He noted that he had avoided discussing the topic for years, even with close friends and family, before finally deciding to include it in his memoir.
In his book, Carroll reflects on the emotional aftermath of the assault, stating that he still copes with the trauma every day. He recalled how he used to dismiss content warnings on television, but now finds himself deeply affected by anything related to sexual assault. Carroll's candidness about his struggles serves as a reminder of the long-lasting impact such experiences can have on individuals.
Carroll's career has seen its share of ups and downs. After a successful stint at Newcastle, he moved to Liverpool, where he faced challenges adjusting to life at a larger club. He has described feeling forced out of Newcastle, his boyhood club, and struggled with lifestyle changes following a massive pay rise. Carroll's experiences, both on and off the pitch, have shaped his perspective on life and his resilience in the face of adversity.
As of 2026, Andy Carroll is serving as a player-coach for non-league Dagenham & Redbridge, where he continues to contribute to the sport he loves. His autobiography, Owning It, is expected to spark conversations about mental health and the importance of discussing trauma openly. Carroll hopes that by sharing his story, he can encourage others to seek help and support.
In addition to his football career, Carroll's revelations may lead to increased awareness around the issues of sexual assault and its effects on men. His story is part of a broader movement encouraging survivors to speak out and seek justice. Carroll's courage in sharing his experience is likely to resonate with many, especially those who have faced similar challenges.
Looking ahead, Carroll's commitment to raising awareness about sexual assault is clear. He has indicated that he will continue to advocate for those affected by similar experiences. As he navigates life as a player-coach and public figure, Carroll remains focused on healing and helping others. His next steps include continuing to support victims and potentially engaging in discussions about mental health in sports, aiming to create a more open and supportive environment for all athletes.
In a world where discussions about sexual assault are often met with silence, Andy Carroll's decision to share his story in Owning It marks a courageous step forward. His hope is that by owning his past, he can help others reclaim their stories and find strength in vulnerability.