The public response has been one of widespread praise and support. Football Australia and the A-Leagues immediately posted messages of support for the midfielder. In the hours after his announcement,Cavallo received praise from players past and present,other athletes and senior politicians.
“Any young person who is struggling with their identity,or feeling excluded or judged,can look today to Josh Cavallo,” Labor senator Penny Wong said. “Thank you for your courage Josh. For reminding all that we are strong and we are here. And we are united.”
Former Socceroo Craig Foster tweeted:“No one should have to hide who they are and the ball doesn’t care about colour,race,religion,gender,sexuality. Just how you play. That should be life.”
The news comes four months after Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Carl Nassib became the first active NFL player to say he is gay.
“I just wanted to take a quick moment to say that I’m gay,” Nassib said in a video message from his home in Pennsylvania in June. “I’ve been meaning to do this for a while now,but I finally feel comfortable enough to get it off my chest.”