By Josephine Lim, ABC
Josh Cavallo played for Adelaide United in 2021-2025. Photo: ABC News/Brant Cumming
Josh Cavallo, Australia's first openly gay male professional footballer, has alleged his former club was homophobic.
In a statement posted on social media, the 26-year-old described the circumstances surrounding his departure from Adelaide United in May 2025.
"It's hard to swallow when I realised my own club was homophobic," he said.
When Cavallo's contract ended with Adelaide United, the club said he was leaving to pursue an opportunity overseas after playing 49 matches over five seasons.
Cavallo publicly announced he was gay in October 2021 in an emotional video released by the club.
On Tuesday, Cavallo said in the lead-up to his exit, his contribution was "continuously ignored" in the club, which affected his wellbeing.
"For the first time, I actually questioned if I should have kept my sexuality a secret," he said.
"This brought up fears I had about coming out publicly, that being myself would affect my career."
Adelaide United has been contacted by ABC News for comment.
Cavallo said it has taken him "a while to digest" how his time at the club ended but "I think the fans deserve honesty".
"Despite the way it ended behind the scenes, I refuse to let it ruin my connection to this city. Adelaide is where I found my wings," he said.
His post on Tuesday has received a wave of supportive messages.
Now playing for English club Stamford, the athlete has previously spoken out about receiving daily death threats since coming out.
"This fresh start in the UK has helped me breathe again and I hope I can fall back in love with the sport that means everything to me," he said.
- ABC