The FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Sports Press Photo

Teenager could make history for South Korea at Women's World Cup

Casey Phair, 16, could make history this summer for South Korea at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, but not for the reason some think.
The teenager's shot at history doesn't have to do with her age but with her ethnicity.

Phair was born in the U.S. to an American father and a South Korean mother. If the forward plays at the tournament, she'll become the first mixed-race player of any gender to play for the country.

According to Luke Bosher of The Athletic, South Korea head coach Colin Bell said that Phair certainly has a shot at seeing playing time as part of the 23-player squad.

"(Phair) is not going as a passenger but as a valuable member of the squad and has every chance of getting into the team," he said. "I know as the first mixed-race player for Korea, men and women, it’s a highlight, it’s something new. But as far as I’m concerned she’s still a kid and it’s my duty to protect her so she can blossom and really fulfill her potential."

Per Bosher's report, Phair has played for South Korea at the youth level and for the Players Development Academy in the United States.

The report further said that there are other 16-year-olds slated to compete at this year's Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Giulia Dragoni of Barcelona has made team Italy, while Sheika Scott will suit up for Costa Rica and Isabella Pasion will represent the Philippines respectively.

"We’re taking care of her, she’s taken very well to the team," Bell said of Phair. "She’s in the squad on merit. She deserves, on her performance, to be selected.”

The tournament will run from July 20 to Aug. 20.

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