First active top-flight male professional to come out in 2021. Charlotte Independence (USA)
Josh Cavallo Just Became One of the Only Openly Gay Soccer Players gay soccer players
Historically the only out man in top-division US men's soccer for several years. Third Division (South Africa) First out gay male professional footballer in Africa. Ignacio Lago Various (Argentina) Came out publicly in early 2026. Historical Trailblazers First active top-flight male professional to come out
Visibility for gay soccer players has grown significantly in recent years, with several active professional men coming out publicly for the first time in decades. This progress has been marked by "watershed moments" from players like and Josh Cavallo , though challenges like stadium abuse and death threats remain a reality for many out athletes. Featured Openly Gay & Bisexual Players (Active & Recent) Ignacio Lago Various (Argentina) Came out publicly in
First active senior international men's player to come out (Czech Republic). Adelaide United (Australia)