Real Madrid and Spain legend Iker Casillas has come out as gay

Iker Casillas has come out as gay via his official Twitter page this afternoon.[Twitter]

Real Madrid and Spain legend Iker Casillas has come out as gay asking for 'respect' in a brief message published on his Twitter.

Casillas, who retired in 2020 after suffering a cardiac arrest during training with final club Porto, is remembered for being one of football's most successful goalkeepers.

The Spanish great was married to Sara Carbonero between 2016 and 2021, and they have two children together both boys, but Casillas has now bravely told the world his real story.

In a tweet published on Sunday afternoon, the 41 year-old said: "I hope you respect me: I'm gay."

Espero que me respeten: soy gay. #felizdomingo

- Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) October 9, 2022

The former goalkeeper, who played for Real Madrid for 16 years, won one World Cup, two European Championships, five La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues in a distinguished senior career which spanned 22 years.

He also made 167 appearances for his country in total.