American-born Aaliyah Farmer left Mexico’s top soccer league because of harassment, coach says

American-born Aaliyah Farmer left Mexico’s top soccer league because of harassment, coach says

February 5, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Sports

Mexico City — American-born Aaliyah Farmer has left UANL Tigres, Mexico’s top women’s soccer league, after experiencing harassment. The decision came after Farmer requested to be released from her contract, a request granted by the club earlier this week, according to UANL Tigres coach Pedro Losa.

A Growing Pattern

Farmer’s departure is not an isolated incident. She is the latest American-born player to leave Liga MX Femenil citing harassment. Lucia Yáñez left Puebla in October 2024, returning to Los Angeles after reporting harassment that included rocks being thrown at her home. Scarlett Camberos also left Mexico in 2023 due to online harassment, though she later returned to play for Club America.

Did You Know? Aaliyah Farmer won the Apertura tournament championship with Tigres in December.

Coach Losa’s Response

Coach Pedro Losa stated that Farmer “didn’t feel safe in the face of harassment that occurred” and that the club supported her decision. He also emphasized the broader issue, stating, “No woman should feel intimidated, abused, or harassed.” Losa did not provide specific details regarding the nature of the harassment Farmer faced.

Farmer’s Career and Next Steps

The 22-year-old Farmer, born in California but with Mexican descent, has also played for the Mexican national team, earning eight caps since her debut in May 2025. She began her professional career with Tigres in 2025, playing 24 matches, starting in 20 of them. Farmer has signed a three-year contract with the Chicago Stars of the National Women’s Soccer League.

Expert Insight: Farmer’s decision highlights the challenges faced by athletes, particularly women, navigating professional sports environments where harassment can create unsafe and untenable conditions. Her move to the NWSL suggests a prioritization of personal safety and well-being.

The issue extends beyond American players, as non-American women in the league have also reported experiencing harassment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Aaliyah Farmer to leave Tigres?

Aaliyah Farmer asked to be released from her contract with UANL Tigres because she was subjected to harassment, according to coach Pedro Losa.

Have other players experienced similar issues in Liga MX Femenil?

Yes, Lucia Yáñez and Scarlett Camberos are two other American-born players who left Liga MX Femenil after reporting harassment.

Where will Aaliyah Farmer continue her soccer career?

Aaliyah Farmer has signed a three-year contract with the Chicago Stars of the National Women’s Soccer League.

As more athletes speak out about their experiences, what steps can leagues and clubs take to foster safer and more inclusive environments for all players?

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