Czech Republic international midfielder Jakub Jankto on Monday said that he was gay in an emotional video on his Twitter account.
“I am homosexual and I no longer want to hide myself,” Jankto said in English.
Only a handful of top soccer players have publicly come out as gay while still playing.
Photo: AFP
Justin Fashanu came out in 1990. Josh Cavallo, at Adelaide United, came out in October 2021 and Jake Daniels did so at English side Blackpool in May last year.
Jankto, a 27-year-old winger on loan at Czech top-flight side Sparta Prague from Getafe, became the first player attached to a club in La Liga to come out.
“Like everybody else, I also want to live my life in freedom, without fears, without prejudice, without violence, or with love,” he said. “I have a job and I have been doing it as best as I can for years, with seriousness, professionalism and passion.”
Sparta Prague said Jankto had previously told the club and his teammates about his sexual orientation.
“Jakub Jankto spoke openly about his sexual orientation with the club’s management, coach and teammates some time ago,” the club wrote on Twitter. “Everything else concerns his personal life. No further comments. No more questions. You have our support. Live your life, Jakub. Nothing else matters.”
Getafe also offered their support.
“Our maximum respect and unconditional support to our footballer Jakub Jankto,” the Madrid side wrote on Twitter.
Top soccer bodies also threw their support behind Jankto, just like several clubs.
“We’re all with you, Jakub. Football is for everyone,” FIFA wrote on Twitter.
“Well done, Jakub. You’re a true inspiration, and European football is with you!” UEFA said.
“Proud of you, Jakub!” La Liga leaders Barcelona wrote on Twitter.
Jankto, who has also played for Udinese and UC Sampdoria in Serie A, has played 45 games and scored four goals for the Czech Republic.
He has a three-year-old son, David, with his ex-girlfriend with whom he broke up in 2021.
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