Czech international midfielder Jakub Jankto said on Tuesday (AEDT) that he was gay in an emotional video on his Twitter account.
‘I am homosexual and I no longer want to hide myself,’ Jankto said in English.
‘Like everybody else, I also want to live my life in freedom, without fears, without prejudice, without violence, or with love,’ he added.
‘I have a job and I have been doing it as best as I can for years, with seriousness, professionalism and passion,’ said Jankto.
Meanwhile, Sparta Prague said Jankto had previously told the club and his teammates about his sexual orientation.
‘Jakub Jankto spoke openly about his sexual orientation with the club’s management, coach and teammates some time ago,’ said the club on Twitter.
‘Everything else concerns his personal life. No further comments. No more questions.’
‘You have our support. Live your life, Jakub. Nothing else matters.’
‘Proud of you, Jakub!’ tweeted La Liga leader Barcelona.
Getafe also offered their support: ‘Our maximum respect and unconditional support to our footballer Jakub Jankto,’ wrote the Madrid side on Twitter.
FIFA and UEFA also threw their support behind Jankto, just like several football clubs.
‘We’re all with you, Jakub. Football is for everyone,’ tweeted FIFA.
‘Well done, Jakub. You’re a true inspiration, and European football is with you!’ said UEFA.
Jankto, who has also played for Udinese and Sampdoria in Serie A, has played 45 games and scored four goals for the Czech national team.
Fox confirms the midfielder broke up with his ex-girlfriend in 2021. They share a three-year-old son.
