The world’s only openly gay high profile footballer/soccer player Anton Hysen says others should not worry about fans’ reactions.

The 20 year old Swedish star, came out earlier this year, declaring that it was “f**cked up” that no other players had done so.

In a recent interview for Attitude Magazine, Pinknews reports he said it was “normal” for him to be out.

“I really don’t think it’s a big thing,” the footballer said. “I mean, of course it’s brave but why should be it be brave?”

“Maybe I’m stupid but It’s just so normal for me because I’m so secure with myself and my family. But I see it’s big for others and that it’s been taboo in football. That’s sad. Where are all the others?”

Anton Hysen is only the second openly gay high-level footballer in history. The first was Justin Fashanu, who suffered harassment and committed suicide in 1998.

“The worst thing a player can think of is the reactions from the fans, and their family and teammates,” Hysen shared in the interview. “But if you’re secure in yourself, it shouldn’t matter. If you just focus on football and what you like and what you’re good at, it shouldn’t matter.”

But if you’re expecting to see this footballer at Pride events, you might be disappointed. He has recently declined all invitations to Pride events and gay parties feeling that it isn’t the right message to send out – instead he chooses mediums such as magazines to spread his story of self acceptance.

“That’s not the right message, to be famous and go to parties and DJ. I’m a football player, that’s all. But to send a message to people who might have problems, that would be good.”

“It’s good to have Pride but that’s not my kind of scene. To be out there with a flag, jumping around partying… The whole symbol, gay gay gay gay gay… I mean, we are gay, I understand that, and I understand the need for a sign that gay people exist.

“I’ve been to Pride, it was fun, but it’s too hysterical for me. I’d rather do something like this, a magazine, to reach out to people.”

While some might disagree with his statements regarding Pride events, it is still great to see that someone of such high profile in the sporting world is still out there encouraging and being vocal in the way that he feels comfortable.

Check out the video below: