USWNT’s Korbin Albert apologizes for sharing alleged homophobic content online after scathing Megan Rapinoe criticism
Image Credit: Getty
29 March 2024
U.S. women's national team midfielder Korbin Albert apologized for sharing anti-LGBTQ posts and liking videos mocking Megan Rapinoe on social media.
Albert apologizes on Instagram
USWNT midfielder called out by Rapinoe
U.S. set for SheBelieves Cup in April
Image Credit: Getty
WHAT HAPPENED?
Albert came under fire on Thursday after it emerged that she had liked and shared several anti-LGBTQ posts on her social media accounts. Albert had posted a sermon on her TikTok account which discussed how being gay and "feeling transgender" were wrong. Additionally, Albert had shared a post of her family saying that"their pronouns were USA".
The midfielder also liked an Instagram post that read "God taking time off performing miracles to make sure Megan Rapinoe sprains her ankle in her final ever game". Rapinoe, who wore No. 15 with the USWNT, which Albert has used in her most recent appearances, retired in the fall after suffering an injury in her final-ever match.
WHAT ALBERT AND RAPINOE SAID SAID
Rapinoe took to social media to fire back, offering a scathing response that she later confirmed to the Athletic was aimed at Albert's social media posts.
Rapinoe wrote: “To the people who want to hide behind ‘my beliefs’ I would just ask one question, are you making any time of space safer, more inclusive, more whole, any semblance of better, bringing the best out of anyone? … because if you aren’t all you believe in is hate. And Kids are literally killing themselves because of this hate. Wake TF up! Yours Truly, #15.”
USWNT veteran Becky Sauerbrunn reposted Rapinoe's story, as did Sam Mewis, Kristie Mewis and Lynn Williams.
Albert, meanwhile, posted on her own account after scoring for PSG in a 3-0 win over Hacken, offering an apology for her social media posts.
“I’m really disappointed in myself and am deeply sorry for the hurt that I have caused to my teammates, other players, fans, friends and anyone who was offended,” she wrote. “I truly believe that everyone should feel safe and respected everywhere and on all playing fields. I know my actions have not lived up to that and for that I sincerely apologize. It’s an honor and a privilege to play this sport on the world stage and I promise to do better.”
Image Credit: Getty
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Albert is a rising star with the USWNT and was most recently named to Twila Kilgore's squad for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup. She earned her first cap back in December 2023 and earned her first start in February against the Dominican Republic in the Gold Cup.
Albert started and played all 90 minutes in the Gold Cup final, which saw the U.S. take down Brazil 1-0 in a crucial tune-up for this summer's Olympics.
WHAT NEXT FOR ALBERT?
It remains to be seen if Albert's USWNT status will be impacted by the incident. The U.S. are set to open the SheBelieves Cup on April 6 against Japan.
