Caroline Seger and Olivia Schough, two prominent figures in Swedish football, recently made headlines as they publicly announced their long-hidden romantic relationship. The news came as part of the TV4 documentary titled Kapten Seger, which aired on December 25, 2023. The couple revealed they have been together for over seven years, sharing insights about their lives both on and off the field.
Throughout their respective careers, Seger and Schough have played as teammates at both the club level with Rosengård and the Swedish national team. Their decision to keep their relationship away from the spotlight was intentional—one they now feel comfortable discussing openly.
"It is quite nice to have had the respect considering we were not interested in the whole bit and the fuss about it coming out," Seger commented on their conscious choice to keep their love life private. This sentiment was echoed by Schough, who added, "Most people know. The media knows but they have been very respectful when it came to this. We have felt we wanted our private life to be private simply, so football can be what it is." These reflections signal both the couple’s desire to maintain their personal life amid public scrutiny.
Despite their successful partnership, Seger admitted to facing challenges stemming from societal expectations and her own insecurities. "I would never not present Olivia as my partner, but I can become uncomfortable in some situations, even today," she revealed. Her hesitance to embrace her identity fully stemmed from her initial experiences as someone who identified as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Reflecting on her coming out years ago, she mentioned, "I know I have repressed much of what it means to live openly, as I have often worried about other people's perceptions and losing respect from them. I still sometimes feel the urge to conform to what others expect of me, often at the cost of my own comfort."
Seger's long career includes 240 appearances for the national team, solidifying her legacy as one of Sweden's best. With her retirement, the door has opened for Schough to take center stage, especially as she aims to defend her club's national title with Rosengård. "I want 'Carro' to become my housewife," Schough joked, expressing her excitement for their future together outside the pressures of professional sports.
The decision to finally go public may allow Seger to embrace her true self more freely. "I think I need to get over this hurdle to live fully. Otherwise, I will always adjust myself to please others," she explained. This sentiment encapsulates the struggle many individuals face—wanting to love freely without worrying about societal acceptance.
Seger highlighted her dedication to support Schough's ambitions as she moves forward with her career, remarking, "Now it is her career that's the focus, and my number one goal is to be there and help as much as I can. She should get to experience her dream just like I have had my time." It’s clear both players have inspired each other, not only through their love but also through their shared commitment to their sport.
With it all laid bare, this documentary not only celebrates their personal love story but also reflects the evolution of personal identity and acceptance within the sphere of professional sports. Fans await the documentary's full release on TV4, which promises to offer even more intimate insights behind the curtain of their lives.
