Josh Cavallo of Adelaide United is now the only openly gay male footballer in the current professional game, after releasing a statement in which he discussed the 'exhausting' double life he has been forced to lead, while hoping to inspire others who find themselves in the same situation.
The 21-year-old has represented Australia at Under-20 level and became a regular for Adelaide United last season. But he is most known for his courage in speaking out against discrimination in football.
In a video posted to social media, Cavallo shares how his sexuality forced him to 'hide' in the past, preventing him from fulfilling his dream of becoming a professional footballer.
Cavallo began by saying, "I am gay and a footballer."
Growing up, I felt ashamed. I was ashamed that I wouldn't be able to do the things I loved and be gay.
I'm tired of trying to perform well and living this double life. It's exhausting. I don't want anyone to experience it. I only want to play football and be treated equally.
In his remarks, Cavallo acknowledged that the amount of support he has received is 'incredible,' and he hoped that his actions would inspire others to feel more comfortable as gay men in the world of football.
[Coming out has been incredible. The response and support have been overwhelming, and it has made me wonder why I have hidden this burden for so long.
"I want to inspire and show others that it's ok to be yourself and still play football - it's ok to be gay and still play football.".
