Love should be respected - Geyse on homophobic abuse

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Geyse was part of the Brazil squads at the 2019 and 2023 Women's World Cups

Manchester United and Brazil forward Geyse vowed to "not remain silent in the face of prejudice" after being the target of homophobic abuse.

Geyse, 26, said she was the subjected to homophobic attacks after sharing pictures online with her female partner.

She said the "deeply hurtful" messages "reflect a mentality that is not in line with the values 鈥嬧媜f respect and empathy that we should promote as a society".

In , she said: "I will continue to live and share my life with authenticity and courage, in the hope that one day everyone will be free to love whoever they want, without fear of judgment or reprisal."

On Saturday, Geyse - who had also previously shared images with her partner on X - posted a selection of pictures alongside her partner in a joint post between the two's Instagram accounts.

Geyse added: "I would like to clarify that love, in all its forms, is something that should be respected and celebrated, regardless of gender, orientation or any other characteristic."

Rainbow Devils, a group representing LGBTQ+ United supporters, said they "stand in solidarity" with Geyse and her partner.

They said: "There is no room for homophobia in our sport, as Geyse put so eloquently: 'Love, in all its forms, is something that should be respected and celebrated, regardless of gender, orientation or any other.'"

Geyse has played for United since August 2023 and was part of the side that won the 2023-24 Women's FA Cup.