When it comes to social media, your posts can have consequences, even for athletes like soccer player Korbin Albert. Recently, Albert found herself in boiling water after sharing some Christian content online. She faced some criticism from her fellow soccer star Megan Rapinoe.
The controversy started when Albert reposted a video featuring a young man discussing his struggles with homosexuality and gender identity during a church sermon. The video showed up again, drawing more attention and starting a debate about what it could mean.
Adding fuel to the fire, Albert’s Fourth of July weekend video with her family jokingly said that their pronouns are “U.S.A.,” which stirred more controversy. To add to this, Albert liked a meme that involved Rapinoe, which didn’t sit well with some people. Although these posts have since been removed, they have left an impact on people.
Rapinoe didn’t mince words in her response. While she did not outrightly call Albert, Rapinoe’s Instagram story condemned those who hide behind their beliefs without considering how it might impact others. The 38-year-old former soccer player then claimed transgender youth are committing suicide due to “hate,” which she alleged Albert was perpetuating.
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“For people who want to hide behind ‘my beliefs’ I would just ask one question, are you making any type of space safer, more inclusive, more whole, any semblance of better, bringing the best out of anyone?” She said on her Instagram
“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,” she added, referring to the number on her jersey before she retired last year. (Albert wears the same number for the U.S. women’s national team.)
“For all my trans homie[s] enduring this horrific treatment day in and day out I see you and hear you and I am WITH YOU.”
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The backlash against Albert was quick, with Rapinoe’s former teammates standing with her stance on social media. They agreed with Rapinoe’s message and echoed her call for inclusivity and support for transgender youth.
Feeling pressured, Albert issued an apology. She acknowledged her own insensitivity, which her actions had caused. She expressed regret for causing hurt and said that she would do better in the future. Albert understood the importance of creating safe and respectful spaces for everyone, both on and off the field.
“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. 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 on her Instagram story.
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“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 get to play this sport on the world stage and I promise to do better.”
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