Emma Hayes defends Korbin Albert amid fan backlash

In London, on Saturday, the U.S. women's national soccer team played against England, ending in a 0-0 draw. During the match, Korbin Albert, a substitute midfielder for the U.S. team, was booed by a largely English crowd when she entered the game in the 73rd minute. This reaction stemmed from Albert's earlier controversy involving anti-LGBTQ+ content she posted on social media, which garnered significant criticism and public outcry. In response to this incident, Albert apologized for her actions, acknowledging that her behavior was offensive and disrespectful. Emma Hayes, the head coach of the U.S. team, spoke about the booing, expressing her understanding of the fans' sentiments while emphasizing her focus on team performance rather than public opinion. She highlighted that there is a diverse community that supports the team, aiming for an inclusive and respectful environment. Hayes also mentioned that she has engaged in several conversations with Albert to support her personal development and address the backlash. The incident is not isolated; Albert previously faced similar reactions from fans during a previous match against South Korea. Former U.S. women's national team midfielder Megan Rapinoe became an outspoken critic of Albert's actions, emphasizing the need for accountability and change in attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community. The coach acknowledged the challenges that Albert has faced since the incident, affirming her commitment to fostering a supportive team atmosphere regardless of external opinions.