U.S. women’s national team defender Tierna Davidson expressed her feelings about teammate Korbin Albert’s previous anti-LGBTQ social media posts, acknowledging that they have impacted her personally as someone who is openly queer. Davidson discussed the issue on Sarah Spain’s podcast, “Good Game with Sarah Spain”, highlighting Albert’s repost of a sermon that condemned being gay and “feeling transgender” as wrong.
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Albert issued an apology on her Instagram for the controversial post that resurfaced in March 2024. USWNT head coach Emma Hayes publicly supported Albert during a press conference in June, stating, “There’s no denying there’s been a lot of work that’s been going on in the background to work with Korbin.”
Discussing the impact on the team, Davidson said, “I think that it’s difficult, because as a team we have always wanted to be very welcoming to all of our fans, to all players that walk through the locker room, and so to have that in our space is very difficult.”
The USWNT has previously used its platform to support trans rights, with players wearing wrist tape bearing the message “Protect Trans Kids” during the 2022 SheBelieves Cup. Davidson emphasized the importance of understanding the impact of hurtful actions on others, particularly when it comes to LGBTQ communities.
In response to Albert’s actions, Davidson shared her desire to represent the queer community positively on the team, ensuring that fans feel welcome and included. Davidson also mentioned that Albert has shown a commitment to learning and growing from the experience, echoing Hayes’ comments about ongoing education within the team.
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Furthermore, Davidson discussed Hayes’ efforts to prepare the team tactically for the Olympics, emphasizing the strategic approach they are taking on the field.
Listeners can hear Davidson’s full comments on Albert at the 26:44 mark of Spain’s podcast.
(Photo: Harry How, Getty Images)