New Delhi: Mexico soccer legend Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez has apologised for a sexist remark he posted on his social media accounts after being fined and warned about his future conduct. Over the weekend, the 37-year-old posted several reels and videos, especially on Instagram, which received significant backlash for comments including, “You women need to learn to accept and honour masculinity.”
Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum described his ideas as “very sexist,” for which Hernandez later said he did not mean to cause offence. On Thursday, he said on his Instagram account, “I deeply regret any confusion or discomfort my recent words may have caused; it was never my intention to limit, hurt, or divide.”
View this post on Instagram
Fined and warned over future conduct
On Wednesday, he was fined by the Gender and Diversity Commission of the Mexico Soccer Federation and by his current team, Chivas. The federation did not disclose the fine amount but stated that a more severe penalty awaits Hernandez if it happens again.
Later, Chivas sponsor Puma also distanced itself from the player’s comments. Chicharito added, “I will take advantage of this opportunity to understand, grow, and continue working to be a better version of myself.”
The all-time leading goal scorer for Mexico said, “Thank you for your understanding, dedication, love, and support along this path.” Over the years, he scored 52 goals for the Mexico national team in 109 appearances and returned to Mexico last year on a two-year deal with Chivas, the team with which he began his professional career in 2006.
Hernandez has not only played for Man Utd but also for Real Madrid and in Europe with Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham, and Sevilla. He then played for LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, where he spent four seasons before returning to Mexico last January.