Lindsay Horan, current captain of the US women’s national soccer team went viral earlier in 2024 for questioning American soccer fans' intelligence. It was a response to fans who said they did not comprehend her game. The blunt comment immediately caused backlash at a time when the USWNT needs all the support it can get before and during the upcoming Paris Olympics. Now, a few weeks later, Horan has apologized and attempted to clarify her comments.
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Lindsay Horan’s initial statement
While being interviewed by The Athletic, Lindsay Horan made the following statement:
American soccer fans, most of them aren't smart. They don't know the game. They don't understand. [But] it's getting better and better.
I'm gonna p**s off some people but the game is growing in the US. People are more and more knowledgeable, but so much of the time people take what the commentators say, right? My mom does it!
And while it is relatively true that the American soccer landscape has not yet reached its peak, the sport is quickly establishing a strong presence in the country through the investment attracted by the MLS and the notoriety of the USWNT. This period represents an important juncture in time for soccer in the US and, as one of its biggest ambassadors, Lindsay Horan’s statement had the potential of turning off, not only potential new enthusiasts but existing ones as well. Such a mistake could stunt the growth and progress that the sport has made in the country and rob the sport of well-deserved attention. As such it was natural for Lindsay Horran to feel the need to apologize to American soccer fans.
Lindsay Horan’s apology
On Thursday 15 February, Horan started her media availability by issuing an apology to USWNT fans for the story published by The Athletic. She said:
The soccer culture in America is changing and growing so much in such a positive way
To go out and play in front of our fans and represent this national team, it is my greatest honor… the last thing I ever want to do was offend anyone in that manner
Horan plays for Olympique Lyonnais, in France, and she spoke about the difference between soccer in the US and over there.
From what I've heard, people understand my game a little bit more, a sense of my football and the way I play. It is the French culture. Everyone watches football. People know football.
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Sources:
Mail Online: Lindsey Horan APOLOGIZES after incredibly claiming 'American soccer fans aren't that smart'... USWNT captain insists: 'The last thing I ever wanted to do was offend anyone'
The Athletic: Lindsey Horan, USWNT captain, just wants to talk soccer
The Mirror: USWNT fans insulted by captain Lindsey Horan and called 'not smart' months before Olympics
