The NFL is the most popular professional league in the United States. For many people, players there are the symbol of strength and masculinity. Now the first active footballer has made his homosexuality public.
The professional football player Carl Nassib was the first active NFL player to make his homosexuality public in a highly acclaimed move. “What’s up, people,” said the defensive end of the Las Vegas Raiders in a Monday (local time) on
“I just wanted to take a moment and say I’m gay. I’ve wanted to do this for a while and I’m finally comfortable getting rid of it.” The 28-year-old thanked his family and friends for their support, through whom he recently felt it was possible to “say publicly and proudly that I am gay”.
Carl Nassib comes out as gay
He added in an accompanying text that this moment had “sadly” tormented him for the past 15 years. Nassib reported that he had received support from the NFL, his coaches and teammates. He was immediately greeted with “the greatest respect and acceptance”. He doesn’t take the step because he wants attention. “I just think that representation and visibility are so important,” he said. He will support the Trevor project with $ 100,000. The organization runs a telephone counseling service for young LGBTQ people.
“The NFL family is proud of Carl for sharing his truth so courageously today,” Football League boss Roger Goodell said in a statement. “Representation is important. We share his hope that statements like his will one day no longer be newsworthy as we march towards full equality for the LGBTQ + community. We wish Carl the best of luck for the season ahead.”
The wide-reaching reactions in the social networks were also predominantly positive and supportive. The Raiders commented on Nassib’s move by saying, “Are proud of you, Carl”. The post was shared by the Los Angeles Chargers and headed “Some things are bigger than a rivalry”. Stakeholders for the LGBTQ + community praised the move as important and helpful.
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
