Out Soccer Star Josh Cavallo Calls Out Social Media Platforms for Trolls' Homophobic Abuse

For all the messages of unthinking animus that are directed at him, Cavallo's visibility has had constructive reverberations in the sports world. His "decision to come out inspired English footballer Jake Daniels to also come out as gay in 2022," UK newspaper the Daily Mail recalled.

"It's touching to see the millions of people that my story has impacted and inspired around the world, and to see it help evolve the world game at all levels, is fantastic," Cavallo responded at the time of Daniels' public embrace of authenticity. "This world and the game of football has a place for everyone. Love will always win."

Fans agreed. While some trolls callously reiterated their homophobic bromides in the comments section of Cavallo's latest post, appreciative followers showed their support.

"For every person who wishes you dead, there are 100,000 who are glad you are here with us 🤍" wrote one.

Another seconded, "You are so fucking amazing and a role model for so many young LGBTQI youth. I applaud you! X".

"I play soccer because of your journey 🏳️‍🌈❤️" read another fan's heartwarming comment.

"😡 2023, we are not their yet," another posted. "Keep fighting for our rights and inclusion! 🫶🏳️‍🌈"

The usernames of those who left the anti-LGBTQ+ comments were clearly visible in Cavallo's post - a detail supportive fans picked up on in the comments section of the post.

"i'm glad you included their usernames. they should be ashamed of themselves 💀" one person wrote, while another encouraged the athlete to "Report every one of these accounts to Instagram for hate speech or bullying/harrassment."