‘I deeply hurt people by moving to Saudi Arabia’
In a candid interview with BBC Sport, Ashleigh Plumptre, the English footballer currently playing for Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, opened up about her decision to move to the Middle Eastern country and the subsequent fallout with some members of the LGBT community. Plumptre, who previously played for Leicester City and has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, expressed her deep regret for losing the trust of some fans after her transfer. She acknowledged that her move to a country with a controversial human rights record, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ issues, has led to disappointment among supporters who once viewed her as an ally in the fight for inclusivity within women’s football.
Plumptre’s shift to Saudi Arabia has sparked significant debate, especially as the nation continues to face criticism for its treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. In her interview, she emphasized that while she understands the concerns of her fans, her decision was influenced by a variety of factors, including the opportunity for career advancement and the financial incentives that come with playing in a rapidly developing league. She noted that she has always aimed to promote inclusivity and representation in sports, but recognized that her choice has created a complex situation where her actions may contradict her values. The player expressed a desire to rebuild trust with her supporters, highlighting the importance of dialogue and understanding in addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Plumptre’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the difficult choices athletes often face when navigating their careers against the backdrop of global socio-political issues. As women’s football gains traction and visibility, players like Plumptre are increasingly scrutinized for their decisions, especially when those decisions intersect with human rights concerns. The backlash she faces underscores a broader conversation about accountability and the responsibilities of athletes to their communities. Ultimately, her reflections invite fans and fellow players alike to consider the complexities of professional sports in a globalized world, where personal ambitions and social values can sometimes be at odds.
In an interview with BBC Sport, Ashleigh Plumptre says she regrets losing the trust of some LGBT fans in women’s football by moving to Saudi Arabia.
