North Queensland Cowboys star Josh McGuire is seeking mental health support, after a barrage of death threats and online abuse.
McGuire has been suspended for three NRL games for eye-gouging David Fifta during the Cowboys' 18-14 defeat to the Brisbane Broncos on Thursday.
Earlier this year, the Kangaroos international was fined $3400 for a similar attack on Manly Sea Eagles playmaker Dylan Walker and he was also charged with eye-gouging Melbourne Storm's Cameron Munster in round five.
NRL players are allowed a maximum of two fines per season, before they are slapped with a suspension.
But the latest incident has led to hateful comments on social media and wife Tanyssa McGuire has told the Townsville Bulletin that her husband approached club officials over the weekend, after being "backed into a corner" by online trolls.
She says her husband has received plenty of online abuse over his career, but the latest threats have gone way too far.
"He's been getting absolutely hammered, relentlessly - like hundreds every morning - and they are just the most disgusting things," she said.
"He's just really withdrawn. Normally, he's very bubbly and a big jokester, but he's developed a sad demeanour and finding it hard to find joy.
"He absolutely loves football and us, but it's finally taken a toll."
She also took to Instagram with an emotional plea to the public.
"See this guy right here? He's a footy player, he plays football for a living, he provides for his family through doing so," the post read, accompanied by a photo with McGuire and son Maxon.
"He's also a dad to two beautiful children, and a loyal and caring husband. He's a son, son-in-law, brother and incredibly good friend to many.
"He's also a human and has feelings like you and I.
"Of late, he has been receiving death threat upon death threat. Countless threats of the most unspeakable things.
"Mental health is constantly being spoken about within the NRL and yet what I am witnessing is the absolute bashing of a man who can only take so much before that thick skin starts to soften.
"Not only from fans, but from most media outlets and personalities as well.
"I am beyond sickened and disappointed, and have witnessed more then [sic] enough moments of sadness for me not to make a stand and have a voice on this.
"It needs to change. I love you @joshmcguire90."
Former and current players, including Beau Ryan, Matt Scott and Alex Glenn, have left supportive comments on the post.
Last year, St George Illawarra Dragons Ben Hunt revealed he started seeing a psychologist, after copping online abuse.
With the three-match ban, McGuire won't be available until the Cowboys' final game of the season against Melbourne Storm.
Where to find help and support:
Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
Samaritans - 0800 726 666
Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
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