Aaliyah Farmer, the new Chicago Stars signee, left Tigres due to harassment, her former coach said.
Tigres coach Pedro Losa did not specify what kind of harassment Farmer dealt with, but said at a news conference on Wednesday that it was the reason the defender left Mexico.
"There was a red line in her process. She didn't feel safe in the face of harassment that occurred and she let us know," Losa said. "As a club, our obligation was to support her."
"I want to speak out," Losa added. "Every day there are female players and women in society who feel this way, both on social media and in other areas. No woman should feel intimidated, abused, or harassed."
Farmer isn't the first player to leave Liga MX Femenil in the face of harassment. In 2023, Scarlett Camberos left Club América to join Angel City after dealing with online harassment and stalking from a male fan. She has since returned to Club América.The Starsannounced this weekthat they had signed Farmer to a three-year contract after Tigres granted her release.
Advertisement
2024: Orlando Pride (defeated Washington Spirit in the 2024 NWSL Championship game)" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
2013: Portland Thorns FC (defeated Western New York Flash in the championship game)" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> NWSL champions through the years
The 22-year-old had a breakout year in 2025, her first as a pro. After playing four seasons at the University of Southern California, Farmer signed with Tigres and immediately became a regular for one of the top clubs in Mexico.
Farmer played a key role for Tigres as they won the 2025 Apertura title. Her performances led to her first international call-up for Mexico in May. The California native has appeared in eight matches so far forEl Tri.
"Aaliyah has a unique defensive prowess, strong aerial ability and the versatility to contribute in multiple defensive roles, which we're excited to add to our group," Stars general manager Richard Feuz said.
"Her promising career is just getting started. We look forward to having Chicago be part of it."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Aaliyah Farmer left Tigres due to harassment, coach says
