Two veteran players on the U.S. women’s national soccer team have expressed their disappointment and sadness over their teammate Korbin Albert’s recent social media activity, which supported anti-LGBTQ+ content. Midfielder Lindsey Horan and forward Alex Morgan spoke out ahead of the team’s SheBelieves Cup opener once morest Japan in Atlanta.
Horan emphasized that the national team has always strived to maintain its integrity throughout the generations, and it is disheartening to see that this standard was not upheld. The players understand the importance of their fans and supporters feeling heard and seen, and they want to continue being a team that people can rally behind.
Morgan added that as members of the LGBTQ+ community and as allies, they stand for maintaining a safe and respectful space. The platform they have been given allows them to highlight causes that matter to them, and they will continue to use it to bring attention to important issues.
Both Morgan and Horan, who served as captains during the 2023 World Cup, chose not to answer any questions during the call with reporters.
Korbin Albert, a 20-year-old midfielder, made her national team debut in November and is currently participating in the training camp. Despite her social media activity, which sparked controversy online, she has been practicing with the team and has not faced any disciplinary action.
Last week, Albert’s social media activity came under scrutiny following she reposted a Christian sermon on TikTok that expressed negative views towards being gay and transgender. Additionally, she liked an Instagram post that mocked Megan Rapinoe’s reaction following tearing her Achilles tendon during a recent NWSL championship game.
Several players, including Rapinoe, condemned Albert’s activity on social media. Rapinoe, in her post, questioned the intentions of those who hide behind “beliefs” that promote hate and highlighted the devastating consequences such hate can have, including the impact on mental health and the alarming rate of LGBTQ+ youth suicide.
Albert apologized for her actions both on Instagram and directly to her teammates. She acknowledged that her conduct was immature and disrespectful, expressing deep regret for any hurt she had caused to her teammates, fans, and anyone who was offended by her behavior.
As the U.S. women’s national team has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ+ community and advocating for important causes, Albert’s actions raise questions regarding the team’s commitment to inclusivity and the values it represents.
Moving forward, it is crucial for the team and its players to continue engaging in open and honest conversations, addressing issues that arise within the team and society. Maintaining a safe and respectful space is essential, not only for the well-being of the players, but also for their fans and supporters who look to them as role models.
This incident serves as a reminder that no matter the skill or talent of an individual player, their conduct off the field can have significant consequences. It reinforces the need for education and awareness, both within the team and the broader sports community, to promote acceptance, understanding, and equality.
As we look to the future, it is important for sports organizations and teams to ensure they have clear guidelines and protocols in place to address instances of discrimination or insensitivity. This includes providing support and resources for players to deepen their understanding of various identities and issues, fostering an environment where all players feel safe and valued.
Furthermore, teams should consider partnering with LGBTQ+ organizations and activists to further promote inclusivity and support within the sports industry. By working together, they can create meaningful change and set a positive example for other sports teams and organizations around the world.