Jakub Jankto reveals he is gay in emotional statement with Sparta Prague giving him their full support

In an emotional statement on social media on Monday, the midfielder revealed his sexuality, stating he wants to live 'without fears, without prejudice, without violence, but with love'.

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The 27-year-old - who is currently on a year-long loan at Sparta Prague from Getafe - is now the highest profile male footballer to confirm his homosexuality.

"Hi, I'm Jakub Jankto," he said in a video published on Twitter.

"Like everybody else, I have my strengths, I have my weaknesses, I have a family, I have my friends.

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"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."

In response, Sparta Prague released their own statement supporting their loanee.

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"Jakub spoke openly about his sexual orientation with the club some time ago," they wrote.

"Everything else concerns his personal life. No further comments. No more questions. You have our support. Live your life, Jacob. Nothing else matters."

Jake Daniels was the latest professional footballer to reveal he is gay in May last year.

The 18-year-old became the UK's only male professional footballer to be publicly out at the time, the first since Justin Fashanu in 1990.

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Meanwhile, Australian player Josh Cavallo also came out in October 2021.

Jankto has made 45 appearances for his country, as well as playing 253 club games, including across Serie A and LaLiga.