World Cup Winner Esther González Criticized for Deleting Photos with Wife and Son After Saudi Club Transfer

Spanish football star Esther González is facing backlash after deleting photos of her wife and son from social media shortly after signing with Saudi Arabian club Al Qadsiah. González, a 33-year-old forward who was part of Spain's 2023 World Cup-winning squad, joined the Saudi Women's Premier League team this week.

The decision to remove the images has sparked criticism from some fans, given Saudi Arabia's strict laws that penalize homosexuality. This move has drawn comparisons to the controversy surrounding English player Jordan Henderson, who faced similar criticism for joining a Saudi club after publicly supporting LGBTQ+ campaigns. Henderson later left Saudi Arabia after six months.

González's transfer comes as Saudi Arabia significantly invests in women's football through the Saudi Women's Premier League (SWPL). The league aims to attract international talent and develop local players, with major clubs investing heavily in professionalizing the sport. The SWPL is seen as a key part of the region's broader sports development programs.

Despite the league's growth and ambition, the social and legal context of Saudi Arabia presents challenges for athletes with LGBTQ+ ties. González's actions have highlighted the tension between the burgeoning professional sports scene in the kingdom and its conservative social policies.