‘I deeply hurt people by moving to Saudi Arabia’
In a candid interview with BBC Sport, Ashleigh Plumptre, the English footballer currently playing for the Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad, expressed her deep regret over losing the trust of some LGBT fans after her controversial move to the Middle East. Plumptre, who previously played for Leicester City, acknowledged the complexities surrounding her decision to join a league in a country known for its strict laws against homosexuality. She emphasized that the choice was not made lightly, as it involved balancing her career aspirations with the potential backlash from the LGBT community, which has been a significant supporter of women’s football.
Plumptre’s move to Saudi Arabia has sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of sports, ethics, and personal choices. The footballer highlighted that her decision was driven by the desire to advance her career in a competitive environment, but she fully understands the implications it has for her relationship with fans who feel alienated by her choice. She noted that the LGBT community has been pivotal in promoting women’s sports, providing a safe space and advocacy for equality. By moving to a country with a record of human rights violations, particularly concerning LGBT rights, Plumptre has faced criticism and disappointment from those who once viewed her as an ally in the fight for inclusivity in sports.
Despite the backlash, Plumptre remains hopeful about fostering dialogue and understanding within the football community. She expressed her commitment to using her platform to advocate for change and to support the rights of marginalized groups, including the LGBT community, irrespective of her current club affiliation. By sharing her feelings of regret and the challenges she faces, Plumptre aims to bring attention to the complexities athletes encounter when navigating their careers in a globalized world, where personal choices can have far-reaching implications. Her story serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between professional ambitions and the values held dear by fans and supporters.
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.
