USWNT Midfielder Korbin Albert Faces Boos for Past Anti-LGBTQ+ Content
In a recent match between the U.S. women’s national team (USWNT) and South Korea, midfielder Korbin Albert faced a less-than-warm welcome from the crowd. As she entered the game as a substitute, boos could be heard reverberating through the stadium. This reaction was likely due to Albert’s past social media activity, where she shared anti-LGBTQ+ content. The timing of the incident, coinciding with the first day of Pride Month in the United States, added further significance to the issue.
Earlier this year, pressure from both current and former USWNT players, including Megan Rapinoe, led Albert to apologize for her actions. The criticism from Rapinoe, in particular, carried weight because Albert had taken over the No. 15 jersey worn by Rapinoe after her retirement. To symbolize her commitment to change, Albert switched to No. 5 for the match against South Korea. The jersey featured rainbow-themed colors, a tradition for U.S. games played during June in support of LGBTQ+ rights.
The audible boos from the crowd when Albert’s name was announced by the stadium announcer highlighted the divisions within the fanbase. It also raised questions about how the USWNT handles issues of diversity and inclusion.
Albert, who is just 20 years old, currently plays as a midfielder for Paris Saint-Germain in the French Division 1 Féminine league. She has been a part of the USWNT squad for multiple tournaments, including the CONCACAF W Gold Cup and SheBelieves Cup.
After the game, USWNT head coach Emma Hayes addressed the impact that team leaders like Lindsey Horan can have on younger players like Albert. With an average age of 25.5 years and 45 appearances per player, the USWNT fielded its youngest starting lineup since April 2022. Hayes emphasized the importance of creating an environment that is tolerant, respectful, and inclusive, stating, “I want to make sure our players, when they come out and play for us, they feel supported by all of us.”
In light of this incident, it is clear that the USWNT faces challenges in fostering an inclusive culture within the team. While the boos directed at Albert were undoubtedly disheartening, they also serve as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to combat discrimination and promote acceptance in sports. The USWNT, as a prominent symbol of women’s soccer, has an opportunity to lead by example and pave the way for greater inclusivity in the sport.
As society continues to evolve, it is crucial for athletes and sports organizations to understand the impact they can have in shaping public opinion. By actively promoting diversity and inclusion, these individuals and institutions can create positive change and inspire future generations of athletes. The incident involving Korbin Albert serves as a reminder that progress is not always linear and that continuous efforts are necessary to build a more accepting and inclusive sporting culture.
In conclusion, while the boos directed at Korbin Albert during the USWNT match were disheartening, they shed light on the ongoing struggle for equality and acceptance within the world of sports. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering inclusivity in soccer and other athletic endeavors. Through education, understanding, and support from team leaders and coaches like Lindsey Horan and Emma Hayes, the USWNT has an opportunity to create a more inclusive environment for all players. This incident should serve as a catalyst for positive change within the team and a testament to the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights in sports.