(Retired/USA): A legendary figure who used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career.
: The first openly gay professional referee in English football.
: The most high-profile former Premier League and German international player to come out (post-retirement in 2014).
(Blackpool FC): In May 2022, Daniels became the first active male pro in the UK to come out since 1990.
: A former Premier League referee who came out in 2025. 20 Professional Men's Soccer Players Who Have Come Out
: Former professional player in Asia who came out after his career ended. Openly LGBTQ+ Female Players
(Adelaide United): In 2021, Cavallo became the first active top-tier male professional to come out. He remains a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the sport.
: The first professional footballer in England to come out (1990).
(Retired/USA): A legendary figure who used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout her career.
: The first openly gay professional referee in English football.
: The most high-profile former Premier League and German international player to come out (post-retirement in 2014).
(Blackpool FC): In May 2022, Daniels became the first active male pro in the UK to come out since 1990.
: A former Premier League referee who came out in 2025. 20 Professional Men's Soccer Players Who Have Come Out
: Former professional player in Asia who came out after his career ended. Openly LGBTQ+ Female Players
(Adelaide United): In 2021, Cavallo became the first active top-tier male professional to come out. He remains a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the sport.
: The first professional footballer in England to come out (1990).