Australian footballer Joshua Cavallo has confirmed he is engaged to long-term partner Leighton Morrell.
Cavallo made history in 2021 when he became the first active male professional football player to come out.
The Adelaide United midfielder received unwavering support at the time and continued to do so as he announced his latest life update.
The 24-year-old posted on social media to thank his club for helping him plan his surprise proposal to electrician Morel.
“Starting this year with my fiancé,” he posted a photo of himself down on one knee.
“Thank you @adelaideunited for helping arrange this surprise.
“You have provided a safe space within football that I could never have dreamed of. Sharing this special moment on the pitch is where it all started.”
The photo collage also featured Morel's emotional reaction to the news, as well as a black-and-white photo of the happy couple holding hands.
Cavallo talks about recent abuse
Since coming out as gay in 2021, Cavallo has been a leading voice for gay rights and the LGBTQIA+ community, but sadly, he has been at the center of despicable abuse.
Speaking about online abuse on social media last year, the midfielder said: “I share my life through this social media platform to help individuals around the world grow. To feel empowered in your own skin. Be comfortable with who they want to be.
“I am extremely proud of my football club and the growth of the LGBTQIA+ community within football, but we must remember there is still a lot of work to be done.
“It’s 2023 and this behavior may be more harmful than you think.
“It's been two years since my coming out journey and I'm constantly reminded on a daily basis how much people want me dead.”
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