Jakub Jankto: Czech footballer becomes first active international men’s player to announce he is gay
CNN
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Czech football Jakub star Jankto has become the first active international male player to declare he is gay.
“Like everyone else, I have strengths and weaknesses; I have a family, I have my friends,” Jankto said in an interview. videotapes released on social media Monday.
“I have a job that I have done the best I can for many years, with seriousness, professionalism and passion. Like everyone else, I also want to live my life in freedom without fear, without prejudice, without violence, but with love.
“I’m gay, and I don’t want to hide myself anymore.”
The 27-year-old midfielder is currently on loan at Sparta Prague from Spanish club Getafe.
The Czech Republic-based team posted a statement in support of the player, writing: “Jakub Jankto has spoken openly about his sexual orientation with the management, coaches and teammates of the team. club a while ago.
“No further comments. No more questions. You have our support. Live your life, Jakub. Nothing else matters.
To show support, Getafe wrote: “We have the utmost respect and unconditional support for our footballer, Jakub Jankto.”
Jankto has played 45 times for the national team since his debut in 2017, scoring 4 goals.
Football organizations also expressed support for Jankto. UEFA, European football’s governing body, wrote: “Well done, Jakub. You are a true inspiration, and European football is always with you!”
Fifpro, the global association for players, tweeted: “Live your life, Jakub. Proud.”
Jankto joins Australia national team Josh Cavallo as the only openly gay top male soccer player in the world. Jake DanielsThe 18-year-old striker plays for Blackpool in the English second division, making his debut in May 2022.
Thomas Hitzlsperger, a midfielder who played 52 times for Germany, started playing after retiring.