Folau in same-sex marriage storm on twitter
AUSTRALIA full-back Israel Folau was at the centre of a social media storm this week after voicing his opposition to same-sex marriage.
The 28-year-old is a devout Christian, but his views on the issue are at odds with a number of his Wallabies teammates who are in favour of the proposed reform.
Australia is readying itself for a referendum by postal vote on the issue of same-sex marriage in the coming weeks, and Folau's tweet attracted widespread derision.
Folau said: “I love and respect all people for who they are and their opinions. But personally, I will not support gay marriage.”
His views are in contrast to Wallabies teammate David Pocock, who has been consistent in support for same-sex marriage, refusing to seal his marriage to partner Emma Palandri until gay people in Australia are legally per- mitted to do the same.
He tweeted: “When my survey arrives I’ll #VoteYes for justice and love. #MarriageEquality.”
Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika said: “It’s his opinion. A lot of people have different opinions about lots of things in our team and our team is a reflection of Australia.
“One of the great things about Australia is you can say what you feel and have respect given to you and pay respect to others.
“It wouldn’t be news if it wasn’t made news and internally we’ve got 100 per cent respect for everyone’s opinions on all matters.
Welsh rugby great Gareth Thomas, the only rugby player openly gay, was not so kind and made his feelings crystal clear on Twitter quoting Folau’s tweet but ending it with a ‘middle finger salute’ emoji.