Gay World Cup Winner Faces Backlash After Saudi Move
Short overview
Spain forward Esther Gonzalez has faced criticism after joining Saudi Women's Premier League club Al Qadsiah, following her departure from Gotham FC citing personal reasons.
Spain forward Esther Gonzalez has sparked backlash after signing with Saudi Women's Premier League side Al Qadsiah, just months after leaving the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) champions Gotham FC under a cloud of ambiguity.
The 33-year-old, who won the 2023 World Cup with Spain, agreed to a mutual contract termination with Gotham in July, with the club stating she was stepping away to "attend to personal matters in Spain." Her contract was due to run until 2027. At the time, Gonzalez said on Instagram that the decision was "due to strictly personal reasons," adding that New York-based Gotham would "always hold a special place in my heart."
However, on Sunday, Al Qadsiah announced the signing of the veteran forward, triggering criticism from both Gotham supporters and members of the LGBTQ+ community. In Saudi Arabia, same-sex relationships and sexual activity are illegal, raising concerns about Gonzalez's safety and the message her move sends.
Fan and Community Reactions
Social media users questioned Gonzalez's motivations, with some expressing concern for her well-being in a country where LGBTQ+ rights are severely restricted. Gotham fans voiced disappointment over the circumstances of her exit, noting that the club missed out on a transfer fee due to the mutual termination.
According to Spanish outlet El Mundo, Gonzalez has deleted all photos of herself with her wife and their first child, born in January, from her social media accounts since signing for Al Qadsiah. This move has further fueled speculation and criticism.
Previous Controversies in Saudi Football
Gonzalez is not the first footballer to face negative reactions for moving to Saudi Arabia. England midfielder Jordan Henderson attracted widespread criticism following his transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq in 2023. The move was described as a "slap in the face" by openly gay footballer Jake Daniels, who had previously received a message of support from Henderson when he came out.
Henderson, who had shown support for the LGBTQ+ community through rainbow laces, a One Love armband, and messages of solidarity in a matchday programme, left Al-Ettifaq after just six months.
Gonzalez's Career Achievements
Before her move to Saudi Arabia, Gonzalez had a distinguished career in the United States, winning two NWSL titles, an NWSL Challenge Cup, and the Concacaf W Champions Cup in three seasons after joining Gotham from Real Madrid. Al Qadsiah finished fourth in the Saudi Women's Premier League in the 2025-26 season.
BBC Sport has contacted Gotham FC for comment.
More on these topics
Al-Ahli and Auckland FC to Open FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026 in
Al-Ahli and Auckland FC will open the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026 in Jeddah on August 26. The winners face Mamelodi Sundowns in September, with the final set for later in the year.
Euro Leagues: Alvarez to Arsenal? Plus Muslić on Schalke's Return
In the latest Euro Leagues podcast, experts discuss Julian Alvarez's potential move to Arsenal, Jamal Musiala's health concerns, and Schalke's Bundesliga return with coach Miron Muslić. The panel also assesses Bayern's squad and domestic challengers.
Uefa set to drop Fifa boycott threat after assurances
Uefa is expected to lift its threat of boycotting Fifa competitions after receiving assurances that plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors will not be revived. The decision, to be discussed at Thursday's executive committee meeting, would allow the Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland to proceed.
From Taekwondo to Record Transfer: Olivia Smith's Rise
Olivia Smith became the first £1m women's footballer when Arsenal signed her from Liverpool. Her journey includes taekwondo, gymnastics, and a father who tracked her goals. Now 22, she reflects on the sacrifices that shaped her career.
