Football’s first openly gay star gets engaged in an incredible on-field proposal
Football’s first openly gay star has become engaged to his electrician partner in an incredible on-pitch proposal.
Josh Cavallo, 24, came out as gay in October 2021, becoming the only active male professional footballer to do so at the time.
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The Adelaide United star was praised for his bravery by fans around the world, while several other players were inspired by his actions.
And three and a half years later, Cavallo is now engaged to his partner Leighton Morrell
The ace popped the question at Adelaide’s Copper Stadium.
And he thanks his Australian club for providing a ‘safe space in football’.
Cavallo said: “Started this year with my fiancée. Thanks Adelaide for helping us set up this surprise.
“You have created a safe space in football, a place that I never in my dreams thought would ever be possible.
“To share this special moment on the field, where it all started.”
Fans congratulated the happy couple on their news.
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One said: “Big congratulations to you both.”
Another stated: “Good luck to you two.”
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One commented: “Absolute scenes, congratulations!”
Another added: “How exciting, it was done in a place where you felt so comfortable.”
When Cavallo came out in 2021, he posted an emotional message to the world.
He said: “I’m a footballer and I’m gay. All I want is to play football and be treated equally.
“I’m tired of trying to perform as best I can and living this double life, it’s exhausting.
‘I thought people would think differently about me if they found out. They would treat me differently.
“They would say bad things about me or make fun of me. That’s not the case. At least you would earn more respect from people.”
He added: “I have been battling my sexuality for over six years now and I am happy to put an end to it.
“For those who know me personally, you know that I am a private person. Growing up, I always felt the need to hide myself because I was ashamed.
‘I felt ashamed that I would never be able to do what I loved: being gay.
“Hiding who I really am, pursuing a dream I always longed for as a child, playing football and being treated equally never felt like a reality.
“As a gay footballer, I have had to learn to mask my feelings to fit into the image of a professional footballer.
“Growing up gay and playing football were two worlds that had never crossed before.
“I’ve lived my whole life under the impression that this was a topic that should never be talked about.”