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Gay Slur Lands Major League Soccer Player in Hot Water

by Emell Adolphus

EDGE Media Network Contributor

Sunday September 8, 2024
Originally published on September 5, 2024

Patrick Yazbek of Australia warms up during an Australia Socceroos training session ahead of the the AFC Asian Cup at Qatar University Field 11 on January 10, 2024 in Doha, Qatar.
Patrick Yazbek of Australia warms up during an Australia Socceroos training session ahead of the the AFC Asian Cup at Qatar University Field 11 on January 10, 2024 in Doha, Qatar.   (Source:Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

A Major League Soccer player has reportedly been banned for two matches after using an anti-gay slur.

According to Outsports, Nashville SC midfielder Patrick Yazbek used the f-word during his league debut, leading to the ban.

In a statement released last Thursday, Major League Soccer confirmed in that Yazbek had violated the league's Anti-Discrimination Policy during a home match against Austin FC the previous Saturday.

"At this time, MLS does not have any further comments on this topic," league told Outsports. However, A source alleged that the Yazbek had used the slur on the field.

Yazbek, who signed with Nashville SC in July, has made three first-team appearances. He started in his first MLS match for Nashville SC at Geodis Park on Aug. 25.

However, 30 minutes in he was called for a foul against midfielder Owen Wolff. After an exchange of words between the two players, Yazbek was later substituted with another player, shocking fans.

In a statement posted on Twitter, Nashville SC wrote that is "aware of the allegations against Yazbek.

"The club is in close communication with Major League Soccer and other relevant parties and will refrain from making any further comments until the league concludes its investigation into the incident," the post read.


The MLS Players Association reportedly declined to comment on the incident.