Photo by ISIPhotos.com
By IVES GALARCEP
Robbie Rogers is retiring stepping away from the game of soccer at the age of 25. Not because of an injury, but because he is embarking on a new chapter in his life after making the decision announce that he is gay.
The former U.S. National Team player and Columbus Crew midfielder came out in a letter written on his official website.
Secrets can cause so much internal damage. People love to preach about honesty, how honesty is so plain and simple. Try explaining to your loved ones after 25 years you are gay. Try convincing yourself that your creator has the most wonderful purpose for you even though you were taught differently.
Rogers left MLS for England after the 2011 season and spent two years with Leeds United, where he played sparingly. He only recently had his MLS rights traded from the Columbus Crew to the Chicago Fire, but he has now announced his retirement as a player.
A member of the Crew’s 2008 MLS Cup-winning team, Rogers made 18 appearances with the U.S. Men’s National Team, scoring two goals, including a winner against Mexico in 2011 in Jurgen Klinsmann’s head coaching debut with the U.S.
What do you think of the news? Impressed with Rogers’ courage to come out? Disappointed that he is retiring stepping away from the game? Hopeful that he returns to pro soccer soon?
Share your thoughts below.