Sometimes the best way to use social media is not to use it at all.
Just ask Korbin Albert, who is a relatively new name on the United States Women’s National Team. The 20-year-old midfielder, who plays for the Paris Saint-Germain soccer club in France, found herself in the middle of controversy and was targeted by Megan Rapinoe over the past week in response to her actions on TikTok.
Albert is still in the early part of his career, having just turned pro in January 2023 after foregoing his final two years of eligibility at Notre Dame.
After earning his first call-up to the senior team in November 2023, Albert is answering some tough questions in addition to smoothing relations with his new USWNT teammates.
What did Alex Morgan and Lindsey Horan say about Korbin Albert’s posts?
Ahead of the SheBelieves Cup semifinal against Japan on Saturday, Morgan and Horan began their press conference by addressing Albert’s situation.
“We have worked very hard to uphold the integrity of this national team through all generations, and we are extremely sad that this standard has not been maintained,” Horan said.
“We maintain a safe and respectful space, especially as allies and members of the LGBTQ+ community,” Morgan added. “This platform has given us the opportunity to highlight causes we care about, something we never take for granted.”
Lindsey Horan and Alex Morgan talk about the Korbin Albert situation ?️ pic.twitter.com/QyQevkQuWV
— Attacking Third (@AttackingThird) April 3, 2024
Morgan noted that the issue has been handled internally.
What did Korbin Albert post on social media?
Albert’s social media activity began to gain traction after former USWNT midfielder Megan Rapinoe called out the critical content with LGBTQ themes which the 20-year-old liked and reposted. In addition to that, the newcomer to the team also came under fire for liking a post that celebrated that Rapinoe suffered a rupture of her Achilles tendon in her last game.
Albert later apologized on Instagram:
“I want to sincerely apologize for my actions on social media,” Albert said. “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 harm I have caused to my teammates, other players, fans and friends”. and anyone who has felt offended. I truly believe that everyone should feel safe and respected everywhere and on every playing field. I know that 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 play. this sport on this world stage and I promise to do better.
What did Megan Rapinoe say about Korbin Albert’s posts?
The posts drew the ire of two-time World Cup winner Rapinoe, who also took to social media to address the incident.
“For people who want to hide behind ‘my beliefs,’ I would just ask you one question: Are you making some kind of space that is safer, more inclusive, more complete, something resembling the best, 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.”
According to El AtléticoRapinoe directed her comments toward the person now wearing her number 15 jersey, Albert, in addition to focusing on the queer lives at stake whether due to anti-trans comments or specific legislation.
While Albert is on the SheBelieves Cup roster, it remains to be seen how much he will play or if that No. 15 jersey will be redistributed to someone else Rapinoe deems more deserving.
