The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup has kicked off, bringing together 32 teams from around the globe to compete for football’s most coveted prize in Australia and New Zealand. Amidst the fierce competition, the England Lionesses stand out for their remarkable LGBTQ+ representation, with several out and proud players gracing the field. As the tournament progresses, these footballers are not only showcasing their skills but also bringing visibility to the LGBTQ+ community on a global stage.
In recent years, women’s professional football has led the charge in embracing LGBTQ+ athletes. The 2023 Women’s World Cup is no exception, with a record number of openly LGBTQ+ players participating, including Canada’s Quinn, who adds joyful trans and non-binary visibility to the proceedings. While some of England’s well-known LGBTQ+ stars like Beth Mead and Leah Williamson are out due to injuries, the team remains optimistic after their historic victory over Germany at the Euros last summer.
Among the England Lionesses’ squad, four players proudly identify as LGBTQ+. One such standout is Rachel Daly, a dynamic forward known for her versatility on the field. Daly’s goal-scoring prowess has been on full display during the 2022–23 Women’s Super League season, where she secured 22 goals, earning her the Golden Boot and matching the record set by Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema. Daly’s partner is fellow footballer Millie Turner, a defender for Manchester United, and the two share their love on social media, setting a heartwarming example of support.
Another influential presence on the team is defender Jess Carter, who made her England debut in 2017. Carter’s relationship with her Chelsea teammate, Ann-Katrin Berger from Germany’s national squad, adds a unique dynamic to the England-Germany rivalry on the field. In 2021, Carter penned an op-ed to support Stonewall’s Rainbow Laces campaign, expressing her comfort with publicizing their relationship and advocating for respecting each other’s choices when it comes to sharing their sexuality with the world.
Bethany England, another forward on the squad, was named the Women’s Super League’s Player of the Year for the 2019-2020 season. Her partner, Stephanie Williams, is a fellow professional footballer, and the two share their love openly on social media. England has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility in sports, and her pride in who she is shines brightly during Pride Month and beyond.
Lauren Hemp, a young and talented forward, brings her skills and identity as an out LGBTQ+ individual to the team. A key player for Manchester City, Hemp’s contributions have been instrumental in England’s recent successes, including their triumphant 2022 Euros campaign. Her partner, Ellie Butler, plays as a forward for Women’s Championship club Coventry United, and the two form another inspiring couple in the world of football.
As these Lionesses take to the pitch with passion and pride, they not only strive for victory but also push for greater acceptance and understanding in the world of football. The 2023 Women’s World Cup serves as a stage where LGBTQ+ representation is celebrated and embraced, setting an example for the sport’s future.