The new NWSL season is on the horizon, and once again, the league proudly showcases a remarkable array of openly LGBTQ+ players. This year, 25 players have publicly embraced their identities as gay, lesbian, or bisexual, making significant strides for representation in sports.
Legendary Players Leading the Charge
Among these athletes is the iconic Marta, who has been a trailblazer both on and off the field. Engaged to her Orlando Pride teammate Carrie Lawrence, Marta is celebrated not only for her soccer prowess but also for her openness about her personal life. Together, they clinched the 2024 NWSL Championship, adding another accolade to their storied careers.
Another standout is Carly Nelson of the Utah Royals. A vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ Mormons, Nelson first came out publicly on social media, sharing her journey as a gay athlete from a Mormon background. Her story has inspired many within her community and beyond.
A Diverse League of Representation
The visibility of LGBTQ+ players in the NWSL contrasts sharply with the situation in men's Major League Soccer, which currently lacks publicly out players. This highlights the NWSL's progressive environment, where most teams include at least one openly LGBTQ+ athlete, fostering a culture of inclusivity.
Adriana from Orlando Pride and Hannah Betfort from North Carolina Courage are among those celebrating their personal milestones. Adriana, who achieved a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics with Brazil, continues to be a key player for her team. Meanwhile, Betfort recently announced her engagement, adding a personal victory to her professional achievements.
Inspiring Stories Across the League
The list of inspiring athletes continues with Jane Campbell of the Houston Dash and her spouse, retired pro soccer player Christine Nairn. Tierna Davidson from NJ/NY Gotham FC, another notable player, is engaged to her longtime partner. Davidson has been a mainstay in the USWNT since 2018, contributing to their successes on the international stage.
Debinha of Kansas City Current and Jess Fishlock of Seattle Reign FC also exemplify the diverse and talented pool of players. Debinha has proudly represented Brazil since 2011, while Fishlock brings two decades of experience playing for the Welsh National Team.
Free agents like Adrianna Franch and Tziarra King have also made headlines. Franch, who most recently played for Kansas City Current, remains a key figure in the USWNT. King, married to fellow player Jess Fishlock, continues to make strides in her career.
Celebrating Love and Identity
Kristen Hamilton of Kansas City Current, DiDi Haracic of Angel City FC, and Angharad James-Turner of Seattle Reign FC are among those who balance their professional commitments with their personal lives. Hamilton has been open about her past relationships, while Haracic serves as an Athlete Ally Ambassador. James-Turner, married to British pro soccer player Amy James-Turner, provides another example of love transcending borders.
CeCe Kizer of NJ/NY Gotham FC and Carrie Lawrence of Orlando Pride are among those celebrating engagements. Kizer plans to marry Alyssa Delsanter, embracing her identity both publicly and proudly.
Representing Chicago Red Stars, Maitane López and her partner Sinead Farrelly continue to contribute both on and off the field. Meanwhile, Cassie Miller and Carly Nelson provide role models for young athletes worldwide, showcasing what it means to live authentically.
Looking Forward to the Season
As the 2025 season kicks off, the stories of these players inspire not only fans but also aspiring athletes who look to them for guidance. Each player mentioned here has, in their own way, contributed to a broader understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ identities in sports.
For those who wish to keep up with these athletes, now is the perfect time to subscribe to newsletters and follow social media channels dedicated to celebrating diversity in sports. By doing so, we continue to support the athletes who pave the way for future generations.
These 25 players are not just athletes; they are role models, leaders, and pioneers. We look forward to seeing them shine both on and off the field in the 2025 NWSL season.
If you know of other current LGBTQ+ NWSL players who should be celebrated, feel free to reach out to us through email or social media. Together, we can continue to honor and uplift these incredible athletes.
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