Top 5 LGBTQ+ footballers of all time

The lack of inclusivity in football hasn’t stopped these players from expressing their identities.

The world of football has been historically known for its lack of acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.

However, there have been several courageous LGBTQ+ footballers who have broken barriers and paved the way for greater acceptance and inclusivity in the sport. Here are the top 5 LGBTQ+ footballers of all time:

1- Justin Fashanu

Justin Fashanu was a professional footballer who played for several clubs in England during the 1980s. In 1990, he became the first professional footballer to come out as gay, which was a groundbreaking moment for the sport. Unfortunately, Fashanu faced significant discrimination and prejudice from both fans and fellow players, which ultimately led to his tragic suicide in 1998.

2- Thomas Hitzlsperger

Thomas Hitzlsperger was a German professional footballer who played for several clubs, including Aston Villa, West Ham United, and Stuttgart. He came out as gay in 2014, becoming the first former Premier League player to do so. Hitzlsperger has since become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in football and has worked to increase acceptance and inclusivity in the sport.

3- Megan Rapinoe

Megan Rapinoe is an American professional footballer who has become one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ athletes in the world. She is a two-time Women’s World Cup winner and has won numerous other accolades throughout her career. Rapinoe has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to promote equality and inclusivity in sports and beyond.

4- Anton Hysén

Anton Hysén is a Swedish footballer who played for several clubs in Sweden before coming out as gay in 2011. He was the first professional footballer in Sweden to come out as gay and has since become a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in football. Hysén has spoken out about the importance of visibility and representation in the sport and has worked to promote acceptance and inclusivity for all.

5- Casey Stoney

Casey Stoney is a retired English professional footballer who played for several clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool. She came out as gay in 2014 and has since become a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in football. Stoney has been an outspoken voice for equality and inclusivity in the sport and has worked to promote greater acceptance and understanding of LGBTQ+ individuals.