Tyron Kariuki, who set Kenya alight during the CECAFA U18 Boys’ Championships, has explained how he has learnt to deal with comments online by fans both in good and bad moments.

Former Kenya U18 star Tyron Kariuki has explained how he deals with cyberbullying online, having already experienced both ends of the spectrum during his young career so far.

Kariuki earned plaudits during the 2023 CECAFA U18 Boys’ Championships, shining from the flanks given his nonchalant ability to successfully take his men on, and was tipped for future sustained success.

However, injury curtailed his progression in 2024, and during the CECAFA qualifiers for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), he struggled to perform in the two games he came on as a substitute, which naturally drew criticism from the fans online, despite the fact they were praising him only a year before.

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He has struggled to find his rhythm and consistency ever since, and now at KCB, is trying to pick up the pieces again. Naturally, this has forced the former Rainbow FC man to avoid social media consumption.

Speaking on the Tiki Taka show, Kariuki revealed the advice that has shaped his perspective:

“When we took part in the CECAFA U18 tournament, everyone was giving us praises left, right, and centre,” Kariuki said.“But someone told me not to dwell too much on the comments because one moment when you are on a high, they will praise you, and tomorrow, they will bash you if you perform badly. The tables can turn at any moment.”

He admits that criticism from rival fans can be brushed aside, but when it comes from his own supporters, it hits harder.

“There are opposition fans who criticise, as well as your own. The opponents especially — it motivates you. However, when your own fans tear into you, it becomes different,” he said.

Reflecting on his struggles at the CECAFA U20 AFCON qualifiers in Tanzania, Kariuki conceded that he was not fully fit when he came off the bench. While he saw harsh comments online, he also found motivation in them.

“I understand I had not played well. It was actually motivating because they knew I am very capable at my best,” he said.

To protect his peace, Kariuki has chosen to cut back on social media use.

“I just love my space and peace. I don’t like dwelling too much on the phone because I end up losing real interactions. I would rather call someone or meet up, rather than be glued on my phone texting all the time.”

As he works to rediscover his rhythm at KCB, Kariuki remains determined to turn his setbacks into stepping stones, leaning on resilience, maturity, and the lessons of experience.