A match between the San Diego Loyal and Phoenix Rising in the USL Championship, the second-tier of U.S. soccer behind the MLS, ended prematurely on Wednesday after a San Diego walk-off in protest of an alleged anti-gay slur from a Phoenix player.
San Diego tweeted after the incident that a slur was directed at midfielder Collin Martin, who announced in 2018 that he is gay.
The San Diego players took a knee at the beginning of the second half then exited the pitch.
Phoenix midfielder Junior Flemmings who allegedly used the slur. According to The Athletic’s Jeff Reuter, Flemmings called Martin a “batty boy,” a Jamaican slur used to belittle gay or effeminate man.
San Diego owner Landon Donovan part of walk-out
USMNT legend Landon Donovan, who owns San Diego, could be seen in a heated confrontation with Phoenix head coach Rick Schlantz over how to proceed before joining his players in the walk-off.
The conversation is hard to make out, but Donovan seems to say “We have to get this out of our game … it’s homophobia.” Schlantz appears to respond by asking Donovan, who is second all-time in appearances for the USMNT, how long he’s been in soccer.
USL, Phoenix investigating alleged slur
The USL released a statement confirming it is aware of the alleged slur and is investigating the matter:
“We are aware of the alleged use of a homophobic slur in tonight’s match between San Diego Loyal SC and Phoenix Rising FC. Foul and abusive language of any type has absolutely no place in our society and will not be tolerated in USL matches. An investigation is currently underway to determine the facts surrounding the incident and more information will be provided as soon as it is available.”
One of Phoenix’s co-owners, former MLB pitcher Brandon McCarthy, tweeted that Flemmings denied ever using the slur in response. A statement from Phoenix soon followed, saying it is investigating the claim of a slur.
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