ADELAIDE, Australia — Josh Cavallo, Australia’s first openly gay player in the domestic soccer league, continues to encounter death threats even after four years since revealing his sexuality. Cavallo, a player for Adelaide United in the A-League, shared on the FIFPro Footballers Unfiltered podcast his concerns about the pervasive toxicity in the football world regarding openly gay athletes.
Cavallo came out at the age of 21 in 2021, a decision he still cherishes as the boldest and most meaningful move of his life, despite acknowledging the significant challenges such a revelation entails. He expressed disbelief at the continued absence of successful and openly gay players in professional football and attributed it to ongoing negativity and frequent death threats.
While Cavallo refrained from discussing specific online threats, he continues his commitment to soccer, training and playing each week. Reflecting on his personal journey, he shared, “I have ups and downs, but ultimately, I feel liberated and proud of my identity both as a footballer and as a gay man.”
Despite the gravity of the threats, Cavallo also experiences uplifting moments when individuals approach him to express how his openness has inspired them, offering them the courage to embrace their own identities. Nevertheless, he admitted to feeling disturbed by negative comments encountered on social media platforms.
Cavallo’s 2021 announcement, shared in a widely viewed video by his club, sparked global conversation and shifted perceptions. However, he stresses the need for further progress in fostering an environment where players can reveal their sexuality without fearing public backlash.
While he hopes to avoid deterring others with his experiences, Cavallo acknowledges the ongoing battle with homophobia within the sport, both during games and on social media. He regards his 2021 revelation as a significant milestone not only for himself but also for the broader LGBTQ+ community.
Peter Malinauskas, premier of South Australia, denounced the abuse Cavallo faces, labeling it as unacceptable and praising Cavallo’s bravery in confronting such adversity.
