Czech Queer Soccer Star Jakub Jankto Announces Retirement After "Very Serious" Ankle Injury

Jakub Jankto, the Czech soccer midfielder who made global headlines as one of the first openly gay male footballers to play at the top level, has announced his departure from professional football after suffering a career-ending injury. The announcement came Thursday via his Instagram stories, where Jankto directly addressed his fans and supporters regarding the persistent questions about his playing future .

In his Instagram post, Jankto described the injury that forced his decision: “I suffered a very serious injury; I completely damaged the ligaments in my ankle. I was trying to overcome it, to get through the whole year” . The 29-year-old noted that despite significant efforts to rehabilitate the injury, which he sustained during his tenure at Cagliari Calcio, the extent of the ligament damage made a return to professional sports impossible .

Jankto’s public acknowledgment of his retirement comes after months of speculation, as he had not appeared in any matches for the 2024–25 season following his contract’s expiration with Cagliari Calcio in June. Transfermarkt, a reputable football statistics site, now lists him as officially retired .

While the injury was the immediate cause of Jankto’s retirement, he emphasized that his family also played a decisive role in his choice. “The key point is my son, I want to spend more time with him, that's why I decided to move to Prague. Thank you to everyone who has supported me,” Jankto wrote, referencing his son David, whom he shares with former partner Markéta Ottomanská . His move back to Prague, he explained, was driven by a desire to be present for his son during this next phase of life .

Jankto’s career will be remembered not only for his athletic achievements but for his courage as a pioneer in LGBTQ+ sports visibility. In February 2023, he became the first player from a major national football team to come out as gay, making headlines worldwide and earning widespread praise for his candor and bravery . His coming out was met with support from fans, clubs, and the broader football community, and his presence on the field became emblematic of progress toward greater acceptance and inclusion in sport .

Jankto spent much of his club career in Italy’s Serie A, with notable stints at Udinese, Sampdoria, and Cagliari Calcio, and was a fixture in the Czech national team. After coming out, Jankto continued to play at the highest levels, challenging stereotypes and advocating for LGBTQ+ representation on and off the pitch .

As he steps away from professional football, Jankto’s impact continues. Reports indicate that he has already begun a new chapter as coach of the Dukla Prague Under-17 team, fostering the next generation of footballers . His transition to coaching not only reflects his ongoing commitment to the sport but also signals a role as a mentor for young athletes, including those from LGBTQ+ backgrounds who may look to him for inspiration.

Jankto’s retirement, though precipitated by injury, is a poignant moment for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. His openness about both his identity and his struggles—including the physical and emotional challenges of stepping away from the game—underscores the importance of visibility, support, and community for queer athletes everywhere.

The announcement sparked an outpouring of support from fans, LGBTQ+ organizations, and fellow athletes, who praised Jankto for his honesty and resilience. As more professional sports figures come out and speak openly about their identities, Jankto’s journey stands as a testament to the progress made—and the work that remains—for full inclusion in the world of sport .

Jankto’s story is a reminder that every athlete’s journey is individual, shaped by personal circumstances as well as public roles. The legacy he leaves is one of courage, authenticity, and hope for a future where LGBTQ+ athletes can thrive at every level of competition.