FOOTBALL’S first openly gay star has shared a heartbreaking insight on “toxic” fans, claiming: “I get multiple death threats every day.”
Josh Cavallo, 25, made headlines in 2021 when he became the first-ever professional footballer to come out as gay.
Josh Cavallo has lifted the lid on the vile abuse he receives from fansAFP
Cavallo became the world’s first openly gay pro player in 2021Getty
The Australian was hailed as “brave” by fans as he declared: “I’m tired of this double life, it’s exhausting.”
And last year he got engaged to his partner with an incredible proposal on the pitch.
However, Cavallo previously revealed he has received homophobic abuse during matches.
And now, the star has lifted the lid on the horrific threats he receives on a daily basis.
Cavallo declared that he has received numerous vile messages, with some even wishing death upon him.
And he has warned other players who are thinking of coming out to brace themselves for a “mountain of downsides.”
Cavallo told FIFPRO’S Footballers Unfiltered podcast: “In the world of football, being an openly gay player is a very toxic place.
“It’s something that not everyone would be able to handle and go through. I still think we’re a very, very long way of being accepted in this space.
“So these are factors that people will consider in their coming out and they might not be out now, but coming out brings all this attention, pressure and negativty that will affect their game in the long run.
“It’s difficult to say to people, ‘Absolutely, come out, be yourself’. But it also comes with a mountain of downsides as well that I don’t think people realise.”
Despite receiving abuse, Cavallo regrets not coming out sooner.
He added: “I was tired of being hidden and of having to go around and hide from peple and not live my authentic self.
“And then I would be like, why hasn’t this happened in football? Why hasn’t no one ever come out to be themselves and be successful and play?
“And I understand that now looking back, all the negativity, all the things that come your way.”
Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
