The landscape of football is continuously evolving, with more LGBTQ+ players stepping into the limelight. Here are 15 top LGBT football stars you should know.

1. Thomas Hitzlsperger

Former German international and Bundesliga player, he came out in 2014 after retiring.

2. Jake Daniels

The young Blackpool FC player came out as gay in 2022, becoming the first active male professional footballer to do so in the UK.

3. Megan Rapinoe

American football star and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, she is a two-time World Cup winner.

4. Robbie Rogers

First openly gay male player in Major League Soccer, he played for LA Galaxy and was also a member of the US national team.

5. Quinn

This Canadian footballer, who plays for the Reign FC, made history as the first openly transgender athlete to compete in the Olympics.

6. Alana Kennedy

An Australian international, Alana is known for being an outspoken LGBTQ+ advocate within sports.

7. Anna Haugh

Ireland’s national women’s team member, she uses her platform to promote equality in sports.

8. Niamh Fahey

Another Irish international, she has been vocal about her support for LGBTQ+ rights.

9. Matt Beard

As a coach of the Liverpool women’s team, he openly supports LGBTQ+ causes and inclusivity in sports.

10. Ashlyn Harris

A top goalkeeper for the US national team, she publicly supports LGBTQ+ issues and pride events.

11. Carli Lloyd

This legendary US women’s national team player actively stands for LGBTQ+ rights.

12. Orlando Pride

The Orlando Pride women’s team is famous for its LGBTQ+ friendly environment and support.

13. Josh Cavallo

Australian footballer who made headlines in 2021 for coming out as homosexual while playing professionally.

14. Jamie Windust

British non-binary activist and footballer, known for advocating LGBTQ+ acceptance in sports.

15. Emilie Rosales

Plays for the Mexico women’s national team and promotes LGBTQ+ rights actively.

Q&A Section

Q: Why is representation important in football?

A: Representation plays a crucial role in fostering inclusivity, encouraging young players to embrace their true selves without fear.

Q: How have these players impacted society?

A: Many of these athletes use their platform to advocate for equality and support for LGBTQ+ communities, promoting change in sports culture.

Statistics of LGBT Representation in Football

Mind Map of LGBT Football Stars

• Thomas Hitzlsperger
• Jake Daniels
• Megan Rapinoe
• Robbie Rogers
• Quinn
• Alana Kennedy
• Anna Haugh
• Niamh Fahey
• Matt Beard
• Ashlyn Harris
• Carli Lloyd
• Orlando Pride
• Josh Cavallo
• Jamie Windust
• Emilie Rosales