Representation is significantly higher in women's football, with over 100 LGBTQ+ players competing in recent major tournaments.
(Gala Fairydean Rovers): Murray became the first senior Scottish male player to come out in 2022. Notable Retired Male Players gay soccers players
: A former Premier League referee who came out in 2025. 20 Professional Men's Soccer Players Who Have Come Out 20 Professional Men's Soccer Players Who Have Come
: Former professional player in Asia who came out after his career ended. Openly LGBTQ+ Female Players (Adelaide United): In 2021, Cavallo became the first
While many professional soccer players identify as LGBTQ+, only a small number of male players are currently "out" and active at the highest professional levels as of 2026. In contrast, female professional soccer has a long history of prominent openly gay and queer athletes.
(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.
: A famous professional couple who have played together at Chelsea and Bayern Munich. Other LGBTQ+ Figures in Soccer