Gary Lineker has taken to Twitter to react after Adelaide United star Josh Cavallo came out as the world’s first openly gay player in top-flight football.
What’s the story?
Well, in the society we live in, this was a tremendously brave thing for Cavallo to do.
The 21-year-old took to Twitter to address his 10.8k followers to share the news, posting an emotional statement before following it up with a video.
In the statement, Cavallo reveals that he’s been fighting his sexuality for over six years, but is glad to have now put that to rest.
Sadly, the Australian admits he never thought he’d be able to talk about this topic while also being a footballer, as he felt it may have harmed his career.
Thankfully, despite much work still to do, the world has changed enough for Cavallo to feel ready to speak up – we’re very glad he has.
You can see what Lineker thought of Cavallo coming out below.
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
— Josh Cavallo (@JoshuaCavallo) October 27, 2021
Fair play to that young man.
Well done Josh Cavallo
As Lineker wrote, it’s absurd that coming out has to be deemed as a brave thing to do, although it most certainly still is.
In that respect, Cavallo deserves a huge amount of praise.
He has made a decision that thousands across the globe are presumably still yet to make, out of fear of being judged by their footballing peers as well as fans.
Now Cavallo has bravely taken the first step, we will hopefully see more footballers pluck up the courage to follow in his footsteps.
Cavallo even admits that he is aware of other footballers who are gay.
He is a true inspiration to millions around the world, and he may well have changed football and the lives of many for the better.
Cavallo, you are a credit to the sport, and also the LGBT community.