Real Salt Lake has issued a public apology to NFL star JJ Watt and his wife, former U.S. Women's National Team player Kealia Watt, following an online dispute. The Major League Soccer team faced backlash from JJ Watt after a social media post failed to adequately acknowledge his wife's accomplishments.

The incident occurred when Real Salt Lake posted a photo of the couple attending a friendly match against English side Burnley at America First Field. The team captioned the image, "Welcome to the Riot, @JJWatt and fam." JJ Watt, who is a minority owner of Burnley, responded on social media, expressing disappointment that the post did not recognize his wife's significant soccer career.

"The woman in the photo grew up literally down the road, won 4 Utah state championships (1 in this exact stadium), Gatorade Player of the Year twice, National Player of the Year, scored the fastest first goal in USWNT history," Watt stated, highlighting his wife's achievements. "Could probably be worth a mention, but idk."

In response to the criticism, Real Salt Lake released a statement expressing their sincere apologies to the Watts for what they described as an "honest mistake." The team acknowledged that they should have recognized Kealia Watt's extensive soccer background.

"Kealia is a Utah native and one of the most decorated players to ever come out of this state," the apology read. The team detailed her accomplishments, including four state championships, two-time Utah Gatorade Player of the Year honors, U.S. youth national team participation starting at age 13, and a game-winning goal in the U-20 World Cup final. Her collegiate career at North Carolina, her No. 2 overall NWSL draft selection to the Houston Dash, and her captaincy with 114 appearances and 28 goals were also noted. The team further mentioned her time with the Chicago Red Stars and her current role as a soccer analyst for Amazon Prime Video.

Real Salt Lake concluded their statement by saying, "@KealiaOhai, @JJWatt — we are deeply sorry. Thank you for all you do for the sport."

Kealia Watt's record for the fastest goal in a USWNT debut, scored 48 seconds into a friendly against Switzerland, was also highlighted. She retired from playing and became a sideline analyst for Amazon's Prime Video NWSL broadcasts in 2024. She remains involved in soccer as a minority owner of Burnley alongside her husband.

The couple began dating in October 2016 when JJ Watt was with the Houston Texans and Kealia Watt played for the NWSL's Houston Dash. They became engaged in May 2019 and were married in 2020.

Real Salt Lake ultimately defeated Burnley 4-1 in the friendly match played before Major League Soccer's return following a World Cup break.