Czech Republic footballer Jakub Jankto comes out as a gay
Jakub #Jakub
Czech Republic international footballer Jakub Jankto has come out as gay.
The Sparta Prague midfielder, who is currently on loan at the club from Spanish side Getafe, is the third active footballer to come out after Adelaide United defender Josh Cavallo and Blackpool striker Jake Daniels.
In a video posted on his social media accounts, Jankto said: “Hi, I’m Jakub Jankto. Like everybody else, I have my strengths. I have my weaknesses. I have a family. I have my friends. I have a job which I have been doing it as best as I can, for years, with seriousness, professionalism and passion.
“Like everybody else, I also want to live my life in freedom. Without fears. Without prejudice. Without violence. But with love.
“I am homosexual and I no longer want to hide myself.”
The midfielder has earned 45 caps for the Czech Republic and has scored four goals for his country since making his debut in 2017.
Sparta Prague have expressed their support for the player, saying: “Jakub Jankto spoke openly about his sexual orientation with the club’s management, coach and teammates some time ago.
“Everything else concerns his personal life. No further comments. No more questions. You have our support. Live your life, Jacob. Nothing else matters.”
In a statement on Twitter, the Premier League said: “We’re with you, Jakub. Football is for everyone.”