Sport

Ex-Premier League Referee David Coote Open Up Out About Being Gay

Published

5 months ago

January 28, 2025

Former Premier League referee David Coote has publicly come out as gay, sharing his journey for the first time in an interview with the UK Sun. In the interview, Coote also revealed that he used cocaine as a way to escape from the pressures of his life and career.

The 42-year-old was dismissed from his position as a referee last year after a series of incidents that led the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) to conclude that he had seriously breached his contract.

Coote spoke candidly about his struggles, reflecting on the shame he felt during his teenage years for hiding his sexuality. He admitted that he didn’t come out to his parents until he was 21 and to his friends until he was 25.

While Coote acknowledged that his sexuality was not the sole factor behind the downfall of his career, he emphasized that he couldn’t tell his full story without being honest about his identity.

He admitted that the emotional suppression he experienced as a young referee—both in terms of hiding his sexuality and his feelings—was a trait that may have served him well in his professional role but was damaged in his personal life.

Sport

Okocha Says Osimhen Should Be the One to Decide His Next Club

Published

1 hour ago

June 23, 2025

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

Former Super Eagles captain Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has shared his thoughts on Victor Osimhen’s next career move, saying the final decision belongs to the striker alone. Osimhen is expected to leave Napoli permanently this summer after a successful loan spell at Galatasaray, where he won the league, League Cup, and the Golden Boot.

Osimhen has already rejected offers from Saudi side Al-Hilal, making it clear he wants to continue playing in Europe. Speaking to Sport 247, Okocha stressed that Osimhen must make the choice himself.

“The decision is his to make. Whether it works out or not, he has to own it,” Okocha said. He added that no one else should dictate Osimhen’s future, saying the striker should do what is best for himself and his family.

Sport

Deco Says Yamal, Pedri, Dembele & Vitinha Deserves to Win the 2025 Ballon d’Or

Published

2 hours ago

June 23, 2025

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

Barcelona sporting director Deco has revealed his top picks for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, naming four players he believes could take home the prestigious award. Deco mentioned Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Pedri, alongside PSG duo Ousmane Dembele and Vitinha, as his favourites for the prize.

“Lamine has a real chance, just like Pedri, Dembele, and Vitinha,” Deco said in a chat with La Vanguardia, as reported by Barca Universal. He added that it’s exciting to see Barcelona players back in the conversation for one of football’s biggest honours.

The 2025 Ballon d’Or winner will be announced in September. Manchester City midfielder Rodri claimed the award last year, finishing ahead of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr.

Sport

Rafael Leao Says Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic Are the Best Players He Ever Played With

Published

3 hours ago

June 23, 2025

Gift Ogieva

Photo source: Google

AC Milan star Rafael Leao has picked Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the two greatest players he’s shared the pitch with. Leao, who plays alongside Ronaldo for Portugal, also had the chance to team up with Ibrahimovic during the Swede’s final years at AC Milan.

Speaking in an interview with fashion outlet L’Officiel, Leao said, “It’s not just one, but two — Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Cristiano Ronaldo.”

Ronaldo, now 40, is still active with Saudi club Al Nassr, though his contract is set to run out at the end of this month. Meanwhile, Ibrahimovic, 43, has retired and currently works as an advisor for AC Milan under the club’s American ownership.