USMNT Legend Alexi Lalas Defends Korbin Albert Amid Controversy Over Her Olympic Selection

American soccer legend Alexi Lalas has come to the defense of Korbin Albert, a Christian soccer star who has faced backlash from the LGBTQ+ community over her selection for the US Women’s National Team (USWNT) Olympic roster.

The controversy surrounding Albert’s selection stems from her previous social media posts, which have been deemed offensive and insensitive to the LGBTQ+ community. The 20-year-old midfielder has been accused of posting anti-LGBTQ+ content, including a video of a Christian worship space preaching against homosexuality and transsexuality.

Despite the backlash, Lalas has shown his support for Albert, quoting a post about her selection on X and writing: “Don’t let the turkeys get you down, Korbin. Congratulations and best of luck to you and all our #USWNT Olympians. Make us proud, this summer and beyond.”

Albert has faced criticism for her online activity, including liking a post that appeared to celebrate Megan Rapinoe’s injury in the 2023 NWSL championship. The youngster has since apologized for her actions, saying: “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.”

The apology came in the aftermath of criticism from Rapinoe, who did not specifically name Albert in her Instagram story but is widely believed to have been indirectly referencing her. Rapinoe wrote: “To the people who want to hide behind ‘my beliefs’ I would just ask one question, are you making any time of space safer, more inclusive, more whole, any semblance of better, bringing the best out of anyone? … 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.”

Albert has received heavy criticism from the LGBTQ+ community over her online activity, with some fans calling for her to be removed from the Olympic roster. However, Lalas’ support for the young midfielder has sparked a heated debate about freedom of speech and religious beliefs.

The controversy has raised questions about the role of athletes in promoting inclusivity and respect for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. As the USWNT prepares to take the field at the Olympics, the team’s selection process and the players’ personal beliefs are under scrutiny.

What do you think about the controversy surrounding Korbin Albert’s Olympic selection? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Alexi Lalas has defended Korbin Albert amid outrage over her inclusion on the Olympic roster

Albert, 20, has been controversially selected to represent USA at this summer’s Games in Paris despite sharing a number of anti-LGBTQ+ posts on social media

Lalas has told the midfielder not to let the ‘turkeys’ bring her down after showing his support

Albert has received heavy criticism from the LGBTQ+ community over her online activity

She was booed by supporters after being introduced as a substitute while wearing a rainbow-themed jersey earlier this month

Albert posted an apology on social media shortly after the controversy arose back in March