“Silent No More: The Resounding Voice of Ramsdale”
Aaron Ramsdale was assaulted by a Tottenham fan at the conclusion of the north London derby in January.
Aaron Ramsdale, goalkeeper for Arsenal, says he will no longer remain silent in response to homophobic comments made in locker rooms and on social media.
The 25-year-old stated that he desires football to be “welcoming for everyone” so that his gay sibling can attend games without fear of harassment.
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Adding that he “felt bad” for the Tottenham fan who assaulted him in January, he stated that he “felt sorry” for the perpetrator.
Ramsdale disclosed that his wife had a miscarriage three days prior.
In May, the England international inked a new long-term contract with Arsenal, following a season in which he appeared in all 38 Premier League games during Arsenal’s title challenge as runners-up.
Even though he had never publicly discussed his brother’s sexuality before, he felt that “with everything going on in football right now” it was the right moment to do so.
In July, a Fulham fan was banned from the sport for three years after pleading guilty to a public order offense involving homophobic chanting.
Wolves were recently fined £100,000 for the same reason, with “a large number of supporters” involved.
“I want this game I love to be a safe and welcoming place for everyone,” stated Ramsdale.
“I want my brother, Ollie – or anyone of any sexuality, race or religion – to come to games without having to fear abuse.
“Over the years, I’ve probably bit my tongue a few too many times whenever I hear homophobic comments or stupid things being said.
“I think maybe my brother has done the same, thinking it would make my life easier. All that ends today.”
Earlier this year, a man kicked Ramsdale in the back during a north London derby at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
As a result, he was banished from all football matches for four years.
Reflecting on the incident, Ramsdale stated that he felt terrible for the individual, who he believes would not have acted in such a manner if he had been aware of his circumstances at the time.
Ramsdale’s wife miscarried during a six-hour flight back to London from a post-World Cup vacation a few days before the match.
“There’s really no way that I can describe the pain of that six-hour flight back to London, even now,” he stated.
“I just want people out there to know that they’re not alone if they’re going through it themselves.”
He continued:
“The last few years especially, you see so much negativity and toxicity in football. Whether it’s on social media or at the grounds, it feels like a lot of people have lost all perspective.”
Ramsdale lauded Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, for the support he provided.
“Even in the middle of the title race, with so much pressure on the club, he asked me if I needed some time off to deal with everything,” he said.
“Mikel went above and beyond to make sure me and my family were OK. For me, that’s a manager.”
“Silent No More: The Resounding Voice of Ramsdale”
