This article examines the experiences of the first `out` gay male British professional footballer for three decades: Thomas Beattie. Following an in-depth interview with Beattie, this research documents three main findings: (1) while the near-total institution of professional football promotes closer friendships with teammates than in previous research, this did not extend to discussions of homosexuality; (2) Beattie`s coming out experience was both overwhelmingly positive and also transformative for his improved mental health; and (3) that the `ruthless cultures` of English football, as well as the inaction of football`s governing bodies, were preventative barriers for more gay male professional footballers coming out of the closet. Thus, while Beattie`s assertions are evidence that men`s professional football has become more acceptant of homosexuality, more action is still required to support gay male professional players coming out of the closet.
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