The Milan player came in for a lot criticism after he held a press conference in which he addressed g**s with an offensive term, which led to protest among g**s.
The Bari born forward held a press conference in which he addressed a number of questions, and also one about homosexuals in the game.
He conceded that Cesare Prandelli had told him that such a question would be posed to him, however, in retrospective it must be said that he was clearly not prepared to answer the question posed to him in the correct manner. His response was crass and led
to an outbreak of protests among g*y communities.
Cassano used the Italian word “ndr” to address the g*y people in football. After the controversies erupting in different parts of the country, the striker released a statement mentioning that it was not his intent to upset.
The striker mentioned that he was not a homophobe, and apologised to everyone who felt attacked by his comments. The released statement further read:
“I am sincerely sorry if my comments sparked controversy and protests among g*y rights associations.”
He went further to state that he felt everyone was free to do whatever they wanted to do and his intent was not to spark any controversy. He further stated:
“Homophobia is not something that is part of my nature. I didn’t want to offend anyone and I absolutely do not want to put anyone’s sexual freedom under duress.”
The former Real Madrid striker went on to state that this was not something he associated with himself, but that does not mean he has the right to judge what others do in their personal lives. The statement finished by mentioning:
“I only said that it’s a problem that has nothing to do with me and I do not judge the choices of others, which should be respected.”
More inquisitions are being made by journalists on homosexuals in the game and they seek the reaction of different players on the issue. There have been few advocates of footballers coming out of the closet but many feel that this is probably not the right
time to admit their sexual orientation.
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