Openly gay football players remain a rarity in men’s professional football. Although the sport has a massive global following, only a few players have publicly come out either during their careers or afterwards. Each coming out marks a significant stride in football’s evolution towards inclusivity.
Over the years, several footballers have shared their personal stories. Some revealed their sexual orientation while actively playing, while others waited until they retired. All have contributed to reshaping perceptions and setting a precedent for future generations.
This article offers a comprehensive list of openly gay footballers whose coming out stories are publicly confirmed. Learn about their journeys, careers, the context of their announcements, and the impact they have had on professional football.
If you’re curious about how this topic is depicted on screen, explore our picks for the best gay films about football, or dive into real-life narratives with our guide on LGBT documentaries on football.
Why Are There So Few Openly Gay Players?
Despite some recent progress, men’s professional football still sees few instances of players publicly coming out. This stands in contrast to other sports, where athletes can generally live their sexuality openly without significant impact on their careers.
Factors that contribute to this include media scrutiny, fear of public backlash, financial implications, pressures from social media, and concerns about being defined solely by their sexual orientation.
An Ongoing Taboo in Men’s Football
The environment of professional football is highly publicized, where every statement can be magnified.
For many years, some players have chosen to keep their private lives out of the spotlight to avoid speculation or negative reactions that could affect their careers. This longstanding norm has made coming out at the elite level uncommon.
A Gradual Change Since the 1990s
Nevertheless, the situation has been evolving over the decades.
Footballers coming out publicly have sparked a necessary dialogue within the football community. Today, federations, professional clubs, supporter groups, and sports organizations are more attentive to promoting respect, diversity, and anti-discrimination.
While change is gradual, every new coming out aids in normalizing the presence of LGBTQ+ individuals in professional football.
A List That Continues to Evolve
This list highlights players whose homosexuality has been openly declared by themselves or is well-documented in official statements.
It does not include rumors, speculation, or unconfirmed information. As new players choose to discuss their sexual orientation, this list will naturally be updated to reflect the current state of football.
Openly Gay Professional Players Still Active
Although they are few, several professional footballers have publicly come out while still active in their careers. Their announcements are vital in bringing more visibility to the topic within the sport.
Their stories are distinct. Some chose social media as their platform, while others shared their truth in interviews or documentaries, all helping to shift mindsets in a sport where coming out is still rare.
1. Josh Cavallo (Australia)
Nationality: Australian
Position: Midfielder / Defender
Club: Adelaide United (A-League)
In October 2021, Josh Cavallo became the first professional footballer in a top-tier league to come out while still active.
He shared his news in a video on his club’s social media, explaining that he had felt the need to hide part of his identity to maintain peace in his career. The message received overwhelming support from clubs, players, federations, and fans globally.
Josh Cavallo continues to be a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports, regularly engaging in public speaking on the subject.
Why Was His Coming Out Significant?
✔ First top-league player to come out during his career.
✔ Gained international support from many clubs and federations.
✔ Widely covered in sports media.
2. Jake Daniels (England)
Nationality: British
Position: Forward
Club: Blackpool FC
In May 2022, Jake Daniels became the first active British professional footballer to come out since Justin Fashanu.
At just 17, Daniels expressed his desire to play football openly without hiding his personal life. His announcement was lauded by British sports personalities and various anti-discrimination organizations.
His coming out is seen as a symbol of shifting attitudes in English football culture.
Why Is Jake Daniels an Important Figure?
✔ Among the youngest professional players to come out.
✔ First active British player to do so in decades.
✔ His message was widely accepted and supported in the football world.
3. Jakub Jankto (Czech Republic)
Nationality: Czech
Position: Attacking Midfielder
International: Czech Republic
In February 2023, Jakub Jankto made a straightforward video announcement saying,
“Like everyone else, I have my strengths and weaknesses… and I love men.”
The announcement garnered support from his club, the Czech Federation, UEFA, and numerous international players.
Already known for his achievements in Italy’s Serie A and with the Czech national team, Jakub Jankto became one of the rare current male internationals to publicly come out.
Why Is His Story Important?
✔ First Czech international to come out.
✔ Received immediate backing from European football authorities.
✔ His declaration focused on his personal truth.
4. Collin Martin (United States)
Nationality: American
Position: Midfielder
Collin Martin came out in 2018 amid his career in Major League Soccer (MLS).
His openness has contributed to making MLS one of the most inclusive leagues on these matters. Throughout his career, Martin has participated in numerous campaigns and events that raise awareness for the LGBTQ+ community.
