Israel Folau posts support for gay footballer Kane Evans, marking apparent shift in stance
Israel Folau posted heart emojis in support of NRL footballer Kane Evans after Evans publicly came out as gay on Monday, marking an apparent reversal from Folau's 2018 statements condemning homosexuality. Evans, who played 131 NRL games before retiring in 2021, detailed his struggles with addiction and suicidal thoughts while wrestling with his sexuality during an emotional television interview. The gesture is significant given Folau's previous controversial statements about homosexuality that led to his dismissal from Rugby Australia in 2018.
Israel Folau has posted supportive emojis on social media in response to NRL footballer Kane Evans coming out as gay, an apparent reversal from his previous public statements opposing homosexuality. Evans, a former Roosters, Eels, and Warriors player with a 131-game NRL career ending in 2021, shared his struggles with alcohol, substance addiction, and suicidal thoughts during an interview on Channel Nine's 100% Footy. Folau's support—expressed through two love heart emojis on Evans' Instagram post—contrasts sharply with his 2018 statement that God's plan for gay people was "HELL... Unless they repent of their sins and turn to God," which led to his dismissal from Rugby Australia and a subsequent confidential settlement. The post comes as Folau, now 37, has been attempting a return to the NRL, though the Wests Tigers declined to pursue his comeback. Evans' coming out has received widespread support from the NRL community, including from league executives and former teammates.
What different sources said
- Sydney Morning HeraldCenter
Israel Folau posts his support for gay footballer Kane Evans on social media
Related
Harry Kane Names France, Argentina, Brazil, Spain as England's Main Threats at 2026 World Cup
England captain Harry Kane identified France, Argentina, Brazil, and Spain as the biggest threats facing the Three Lions at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins June 11. Kane emphasized that success requires preparation to face multiple elite teams throughout the tournament, not just in a single match. Kane's assessment reflects England's position among tournament favorites alongside these nations, as the team seeks its first World Cup title since 1966.
Packers' Christian Watson Sets Ambitious Goals After $110 Million Contract Extension
Wide receiver Christian Watson signed a four-year, $110 million contract extension with the Green Bay Packers and outlined personal goals of 1,100+ receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns for the 2026 season. Watson has struggled with injuries throughout his career, appearing in just 48 games over four seasons and never exceeding 620 yards or seven touchdowns in a single year. The goals represent a significant step up from his recent performance but reflect the Packers' confidence in his potential.
Drew Bledsoe Warns Drake Maye to Manage Expectations After Patriots' Super Bowl Run
Former Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe cautioned Drake Maye about the intense pressure that follows a successful season, advising him to temper expectations after the Patriots nearly won the MVP and Super Bowl last year. Bledsoe, who was in a similar position at age 24 with New England before losing his starting job to Tom Brady, warned that high expectations can lead to unfair criticism. The advice comes as Maye heads into his third season facing a more challenging schedule than the Patriots' beneficial one from last year.