Korbin Albert’s journey with the USWNT continues to be a polarizing narrative for some fans after the 21-year-old midfielder faced relentless criticism for her past social media activity perceived as anti-LGBTQ+. Yet, under the guidance of head coach Emma Hayes, Albert is slowly navigating her way back into the fold, even as boos accompanied her every step of the way.
Last March, Albert’s interactions with a TikTok sermon condemning LGBTQ+ identities and her public support for divisive content, including mocking Megan Rapinoe’s Achilles injury, sparked outrage. The PSG player apologized after dividing the locker room and facing widespread backlash.
“I want to sincerely apologize for my actions on social media,” Albert wrote on her Instagram story. “Liking and sharing posts that are offensive, insensitive, and hurtful was immature and disrespectful which was never my intent.” While the apology may have come from the heart, public forgiveness was and continues to be elusive.
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After months of being booed every time she took the pitch, especially against Japan, the controversy seemed to cool down after the USWNT’s July 31 World Cup group-stage match against Australia. She scored a decisive outside-of-the-box goal and her first in international competition in the 77th minute to secure a 2-1 win, to which her teammates rallied around her solidarity for what seemed to be the first time in months.
After the game, Hayes framed the moment as one of growth and resilience for Albert and the team. “We all know she’s been through a lot with her actions,” Hayes said.
“She’s truly sorry for what she’s done. Im a mother, and my instinct is to protect, but I also don’t tolerate behavior that creates division. We want an environment where people feel they can be themselves.” Hayes also complimented the “Growing up” Korbin had to do to make things in the team right.
Albert’s relationship with Hayes has evolved into a mentorship dynamic similar to other players on the team, with Albert crediting her coach for helping her navigate one of the most difficult periods of her life. “Emma has taught me so much about being a better person, both on and off the field,” she said.
Korbin Albert continues to be a top selection for the USWNT’s match sheet (
Getty)
The team held a pivotal meeting in March to address the controversy and reset team dynamics, as players criticized the way that the situation was handled. Since then, Albert has started in several matches, including the USWNT’s 2-1 friendly victory over the Netherlands on Dec. 3.
While the boos persist online in comment sections, Albert’s performances suggest she is focusing on the work ahead. She has two goals and an assist for PSG this season in ten games, with all signs pointing to her participation in Team USA’s first 2025 SheBelieves Cup match against Colombia, who has never defeated the USWNT across ten fixtures.
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