Megan Rapinoe never shies away from calling out anti-LGBTQ actions and beliefs. And recently, she directed her attention to posts by Korbin Albert, the 20-year-old midfielder who now wears Rapinoe’s No. 15 with the U.S. Women’s National Team.
Albert reposted and liked posts on TikTok that were widely criticized for being anti-LGBTQ, including a sermon video in which someone claims to have been saved by God from “feeling transgender,” among others. Rapinoe became aware of the posts and, although she did not directly mention Albert, she later confirmed that they were directed at the Paris Saint-Germain midfielder.
“For people who want to hide behind ‘my beliefs,’ I would just ask one question: Are you making some kind of space safer, more inclusive, more complete, something resembling something better, bringing out the best in each other?” Rapinoe wrote. in her story, by Yahoo Sports. “Because if you’re not, the only thing you believe in is hate. And kids are literally killing themselves because of this hate. Wake up TF! Sincerely, #15. To all my trans friends who put up with this horrible treatment day after day, I see you and I hear you and I am WITH YOU.”
Athletic reached out to Rapinoewho said the post was directed at Albert but also focused on the queer lives at stake whether over anti-trans comments or specific legislation.
Albert apologized on his Instagram for liking and sharing the posts.
“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 intention. I am truly disappointed in myself and deeply sorry for the pain I suffered. “I have caused my teammates, other players, fans, friends and anyone who has been offended,” Albert said. “I truly believe that everyone should feel safe and respected everywhere and on every playing field. . I know my actions have not lived up to that and for that I sincerely apologize. It is an honor and a privilege to be able to practice this sport in this world. stage and I promise to do better.
Albert was called up to the senior US women’s national team in November 2023 and was selected to wear number 15, the number Rapinoe previously wore before her retirement. She has played for Paris Saint-Germain since January 2023, when she left Notre Dame with two years of college eligibility remaining.
Publications by Korbin Albert
Alberto posted again several publications which later re-circulated online and were largely anti-LGBTQ.
Among other anti-LGBTQ posts, Albert also seemed to like post on Instagram (now deleted) who joked that God caused Rapinoe to get injured during her last game.
According to The Athletic, Albert also posted a video to her TikTok on July 4, 2023 in which she and her family say “their pronouns and US.” The post has since been deleted.
