Will U.S. Soccer punish Korbin Albert for her post on TikTok about transgender people?

On March 28, 2024, U.S. women’s national team midfielder Korbin Albert found herself at the center of controversy due to her social media activity. The 20-year-old player, who represents Paris Saint-Germain and has made seven appearances for the United States, faced criticism after engaging with content on TikTok that was deemed “offensive, insensitive, and hurtful.”

Albert’s actions involved liking and sharing posts that expressed negative views about being gay and “feeling transgender”. The content in question included a video from a Christian sermon that portrayed these aspects as wrong. The LGBTQ+ community and allies were upset by the content, leading to a public outcry.

Korbin Albert’s apology after the backlash of her comments on TikTok

In response to the backlash, Korbin Albert took to her Instagram story to issue an apology:

“I want to sincerely apologize for my actions on social media. Liking and sharing posts that are offensive, insensitive, and hurtful was iMMAture and disrespectful, which was never my intent.” 

Her apology came shortly after PSG’s 3-0 victory over Häcken in the Women’s Champions League quarterfinals, a match in which she scored. However, the incident did not go unnoticed by recently retired U.S. soccer superstar Megan Rapinoe.

Will U.S. Soccer ban Korbin Albert?

As of now, U.S. Soccer has not publicly announced any specific punishment for Korbin Albert. However, the incident serves as a reminder that athletes, whether on or off the field, carry a responsibility to promote inclusivity and respect. Albert’s presence on the roster for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup adds further weight to the situation.

What was Megan Rapinoe’s reaction?

Rapinoe, former U.S. captain and outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, responded to the situation without directly naming Albert. In her own Instagram story, she urged people not to hide behind their beliefs:

“kids are literally killing themselves because of this hate.”

There is ongoing discussion about the tension that exists between the demands of sensitivity and the right to free speech. There will be conversations throughout the soccer community on social responsibility, LGBTQ+ rights, and Sportsmanship based on how U.S. Soccer deals with this issue.