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Alex Morgan got in some hot water with the National Women’s Soccer League after she publicly called out a referee’s decision over Twitter after a game. Her USWNT teammate Sophia Smith her decision and disagreed with the fine.
The incident took place during San Diego Wave’s game vs. KC Current on Saturday, Sept. 16. Morgan was in KC’s box when defender Stine Ballisager Pedersen came flying in with a crunching challenge.
Morgan sustained a minor injury from the challenge; however, no foul was called. KC went on to win the game 2-1 as San Diego dropped crucial points in a hotly contested NWSL table. With three games left the Wave are in second place, but only five points separate second from seventh (out of the playoffs).
Morgan took to Twitter to call out her opponent and the referee claiming that a tackle like that could have been career ending. Her tweet received more than seven million views.
Alex Morgan fined for tweet
Not sure how Stine Ballisager gets away with this one on Alex Morgan. She gets the ball (I think) but she absolutely cleans her out. No PK. #KCBaby #SDvKC pic.twitter.com/tDSEV820vW
— Chad Smith (@PlayFor90) September 17, 2023
In what world is this not a penalty and red card, or even foul? Completely reckless and the leg going in for the tackle doesn't even get a ball when I cut her? Just glad I saw her coming and didn't plant on that leg or I'd 100% not be walking today. pic.twitter.com/ruQ2rXtcK3
— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) September 17, 2023
The league announced it was fining Morgan for violating the League Operations Manual. The fine was reportedly $500.
INBOX: The #NWSL has issued a fine to San Diego Wave FC forward Alex Morgan for comments detrimental to the league made on social media on September 17, 2023, in violation of Section 12.2.5 (e) “Prejudicial Statements and Public Criticism” of the League Operations Manual.
— Jenna Tonelli (@jennatonelli) September 20, 2023
Portland Thorns and USWNT forward Smith clapped back to the NWSL’s decision calling it “so backwards.”
this is so backwards and priorities are allll messed up https://t.co/uj2FTXh8i7
— Sophia Smith (@sophsssmith) September 20, 2023
It’s unclear whether or not Smith will also be fined for publicly criticizing the league.
