Australian football player Josh Cavallo announced that he is gay in a video message released by his club Adelaide United on Wednesday.
In doing so, he has become the only current top-flight male professional footballer in the world to confirm their homosexuality.
The 21-year-old midfielder made the announcement in a video message and open letter posted to his club’s social media.
“There’s something personal that I need to share with everyone. I am a footballer and I am gay,” Cavallo said in the video.
The A-League star added he had been living a double life and hiding who he truly is, and that he was finally comfortable speaking out.
He also expressed his hope that opening up about his sexuality will inspire others around the world who may be struggling.
Former England striker and Match of the Day host Gary Linker was full of praise for the player via Twitter on Wednesday.
It’s absurd that coming out is a brave thing to do in football. It is though, and I’m full of admiration for Josh for treading a path hopefully many others will follow. I’m sure the overwhelming majority of football lovers will support him and erase the fear others may have. https://t.co/iDvg67qN7s
— Gary Lineker ? (@GaryLineker) October 27, 2021
“It’s been a journey to get to this point in my life, but I couldn’t be happier with my decision to come out,” Cavallo said.
“I have been fighting my sexuality for six years now and I’m glad I can put that to rest.”
“Growing up I always felt the need to hide myself because I was ashamed – ashamed I would never be able to do what I loved and be gay.”
“Growing up being gay and playing football were just two worlds that hadn’t crossed paths before.”
His announcement comes just as the Isuzu UTE A-League season prepares for the new season’s kick-off.
“Being a gay closeted footballer, I’ve had to learn to mask my feelings in order to fit the mold of a professional footballer,” Cavallo wrote.
“As a gay footballer, I know there are other players living in silence.
“I want to help change this, to show that everyone is welcome in the game of football, and deserves the right to be their authentic self.”
