"I'm convinced that
something has
changed"
Former PUMA footballer Thomas Hitzlsperger reads from his book "Mutproben" at Nuremberg Pride
August 13, 2024Former PUMA footballer Thomas Hitzlsperger reads from his book "Mutproben" at Nuremberg Pride
August 13, 2024German Football legend and former PUMA player Thomas Hitzlsperger visited Nuremberg Pride to read from his book “Mutproben” (dares), which describes his candid and personal experiences as a professional footballer and his journey towards publicly coming out.
After he read passages from his book at the Original Bar in Nuremberg, he also shared his insights on diversity and inclusion in an open Q&A, talked about his experiences in the locker room when he was still actively playing football and explained why he wanted to come out only after his professional career was over. The CSD in Nuremberg in early August, of which PUMA was a proud main sponsor, served as the perfect stage for his story and people were excited to learn about his personal experiences.
"I think the greatest achievement of all was actually coming out. And I don't think there's a better day here in Germany to talk about it than at CSD."
In 2014, Thomas Hitzlsperger became the first German professional footballer to publicly come out as gay. He wants to share his experiences to encourage other people, especially footballers, to live openly.
"I'm convinced that something has changed and that's why I always appreciate public coming outs. I still think they're right and important."
At PUMA, we believe that diversity is a key component of our PUMA Spirit. Our value “Be You” is not just a phrase – it underlines our commitment to creating a work place where every employee can be who they are.
Equality and non-discrimination are embedded in PUMA’s corporate culture. We want to continuously create a respectful and supportive workplace that enables everyone to simply be themselves.
