Gay Footballer Josh Cavallo Says Homophobia Forced Him Out of Adelaide United

Australian footballer Josh Cavallo, said to be the only active out gay professional men’s footballer in the world, has claimed that homophobia led to his exit from Adelaide United last year.

In a post shared on Instagram, the professional sportsman told fans that they deserved honesty about the announcement made in May 2025 that he would “be moving on from the club for an opportunity overseas.”

Cavallo, who came out publicly in 2021, asserted that the reality was very different. “Leaving the club had nothing to do with football. Decisions were made by people in power that blocked my opportunities, not because of my talent, but because of who I choose to love,” he said.

Claims of Internal Homophobia

According to Cavallo, changes in management marked a turning point in his treatment at the club. He claimed that “it became clear that I wasn’t allowed on the pitch because of politics. It’s hard to swallow when I realised my own club was homophobic.”

He added that he felt frustrated by the public perception that injuries were keeping him sidelined. “I was angry because people thought I was sidelined based on injuries, when in reality, it was internal homophobia that kept me on the bench,” he said.

Cavallo said he tried to remain professional despite the circumstances, continuing to work on his performance and contributions, but felt consistently ignored and increasingly isolated.

Fear of Being Openly Gay

Reflecting on the emotional toll, Cavallo said the experience reinforced long-held fears about coming out in professional sport.

“This was exactly the fear I had about coming out, seeing prejudice affect my career in modern day. For the first time, I actually questioned if I should have kept my sexuality a secret. This brought up fears I had about coming out publicly, that being myself would affect my career.”

He also claimed that his belief that the club was a safe space shattered “after seeing a group chat of teammates mocking a picture of me and my partner…”

Despite this, Cavallo expressed gratitude to supporters, adding: “You were incredible to play in front of. Thank you.”

Club Responds to Allegations

Cavallo previously made headlines in March 2024 when he proposed to his partner, Leighton Morrell, on Adelaide United’s home pitch at Coopers Stadium.

In response to the allegations, Adelaide United said it was “disappointed by the claims made” and “categorically rejects the allegations, including any suggestion that Adelaide United is homophobic.”

The club insisted that “all on-field decisions relating to team selection are made solely on footballing grounds” and stated that it remains “committed to fostering an inclusive environment for players, staff and supporters.”

A Fresh Start in England

Cavallo has since joined English National League North side Peterborough Sports. He said the move “has helped me breathe again and I hope I can fall back in love with the sport that means everything to me.”