Richarlyson comes out as bisexual: I've been with men and women

At 39 years of age, Richarlyson has done what he couldn't do during his years as a footballer: declare his sexuality without fear.

In the world of sports, particularly football, athletes have been afraid to make their sexuality known out of fear it may negatively impact their careers.

Richarlyson broke that taboo on the 'Nos Armarios dos Vestiarios' podcast by stating he's bisexual.

"All my life I've been asked if I'm gay," he said. "I've had relationships with men and I've also had relationships with women. I'm bisexual."

The Brazilian clarified that he doesn't want to focus on the headlines that will create. Instead, he wants to tackle the homophobia that exists in his country.

"I am normal, I have needs and desires," he added. "I've dated a man, I've dated a woman, but so what?

"I want to see if things really change in society because Brazil is the country that kills the most homosexuals."

Pressure during his football career

Winner of three Brazilian championships, a Club World Cup and a Copa Libertadores, Richarlyson suffered first-hand harassment because of his sexuality.

In 2007, Palmeiras coach Jose Cyrillo Junior stated publicly that Richarlyson was gay, which the player feared would lead to a reprisal.

"It was always me. I wanted to show people that regardless of what they said, I would live my life," Richarlyson said.

He also found no support from his family, with whom he was only to speak openly with one member.

"I only spoke openly about my sexuality with my mother. My father and brother will find out through the podcast," Richarlyson concluded.