Trailblazing openly gay Czech footballer Jakub Jankto retires at just 29

Jakub Jankto, the openly gay Czech footballer, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of just 29.

Jankto, who played for clubs including Udinese, Sampdoria, Getafe, and most recently Cagliari, cited a serious ankle injury and a desire to be closer to his son in Prague as the key reasons behind his decision.

“I suffered a very serious injury - completely damaged ligaments in my ankle,” he shared in a heartfelt social media post. “I was trying to overcome it, to get through the whole year. But the key point was my child, with whom I couldn’t meet more often. I wanted to change this situation because we have just one family.”

Jankto’s announcement marks the end of a career that spanned top-flight football in Italy, Spain and the Czech Republic. He earned 45 caps for the Czech national team, scoring four goals and featuring in the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament.

In February 2023, Jankto came out as gay in a powerful video posted to social media, stating, “I no longer want to hide myself.” His decision was widely praised across the footballing world, with many players and fans commending his courage. Reflecting on the moment, Jankto said, “If I could do it again, I definitely would, because it helped myself and I think it helped many, many people. It was a huge moment for all footballers.”

Now back in Prague, Jankto has taken on a new role as assistant coach for the Under-7s team at FK Dukla Prague, signalling a shift towards nurturing the next generation of players. His legacy, however, extends far beyond the pitch. As one of the few openly gay male footballers to come out while still active, Jankto has become a symbol of progress and inclusion in a sport still grappling with homophobia.