Jankto comes out as gay
PRAGUE - Czech Republic star Jakub Jankto has come out as gay in an emotional video on social media while vowing: “I no longer want to hide myself.”
Jankto, who is currently on loan at Sparta Prague from LaLiga side Getafe, revealed he is homosexual after insisting he is determined to live life ‘without fears, prejudice and violence - but with love’.
The 27-year-old said: “Hi I am Jakub Jankto. Like everybody else, I have my strengths, I have my weaknesses, I have a family, I have my friends.
“’I am homosexual and I no longer want to hide myself.”
Purpose
As Jankto finishes speaking, a tagline at the bottom of the video reads: “This is not an entertainment. The purpose of this video is to encourage others.” The Getafe player is one of few male footballers to have come out as gay in recent years. Josh Cavallo, who plays for Australian team Adelaide United, came out in 2021 to then become the only pro in the world to reveal he was gay. Blackpool FC’s Jake Daniels then became Britain’s only active homosexual player when he made the move to help tackle homophobia in the sport last year.
Careers
Some have also come out after their careers were over, such as former Aston Villa player Thomas Hitzlsperger and ex-Hull City youth star Thomas Beattie.
Jankto, who has become the first LaLiga footballer to come out as gay, has been widely praised after he shared his message on social media, with one user posting: “Your courage and strength are inspiring, Jakub. Be free, be you, be loved. We stand with you.” Another commented: “Thank you very much for your words. You are helping many of us.”
A third said: “This will make you an inspiration to thousands of young guys around the world. I congratulate you on your decision and keep my fingers crossed that you are happy.”