Australia's pioneering openly gay footballer Josh Cavallo has revealed he receives multiple death threats every single day. The Adelaide United midfielder shared this troubling reality on FIFPRO's Footballers Unfiltered podcast, offering a raw glimpse into his life since coming out in 2021.
Despite having great support from his club and coaches, Cavallo described football as a "very toxic place" for openly gay players. The abuse has become a regular part of his daily life.
"There's multiple, multiple, multiple death threats that come my way daily still. And it's quite sad to see," Cavallo explained. The 23-year-old Australian doesn't sugar-coat the challenges he faces.
Football's Difficult Reality for LGBTQ+ Players
Cavallo believes football remains far from accepting LGBTQ+ players. This creates a tough situation for others considering coming out. The midfielder has been targeted with homophobic abuse from crowds during matches.
"It's difficult to say to people, 'Absolutely, come out, be yourself,'" he admitted. "But it also comes with a mountain of downsides as well that I don't think people realize."
The Adelaide United player says having a strong support network has helped him build a protective wall against the abuse. This support system has been crucial for his mental health and performance on the pitch.
No Regrets Despite the Challenges
Despite the negativity, Cavallo doesn't regret coming out. In fact, he wishes he had done it earlier than age 21. He felt exhausted from living what he describes as a lie.
"I was tired of being hidden and tired of having to go around and hide from people and not live my authentic self," he shared. Cavallo had often wondered why no one in professional football had come out while still playing.
Now he understands the reason all too well. The constant negativity and pressure can affect a player's performance and mental wellbeing. This harsh reality highlights why many players might choose to keep their sexuality private during their careers.
Cavallo's experience raises important questions about inclusivity in football. His courage in speaking out continues to shine a light on an issue many in the sport would prefer to ignore.
For Adelaide United, supporting their midfielder through these challenges remains crucial. The club's stance on inclusion and their backing of Cavallo sends a powerful message across Australian football and beyond.
