College football star Caleb Williams riles homophobes with pink phone, pink wallet and pink nails
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Former USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams, 22, made headlines recently when he was spotted at a USC women’s basketball game sporting pink-painted nails and a pink phone. The young football star, who clinched the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2022, waved cheerfully to the camera, showcasing his unique style choices.
However, Williams’ fashion statement quickly drew backlash from online sports fans, particularly on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Many users criticized his appearance, labeling him as “too sassy” or even going as far as calling him “Gayleb Williams.” The comments section beneath a Barstool Sports video of Williams at the game was flooded with homophobic remarks, shedding light on the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the world of sports, especially in football.
The NFL, in particular, has seen very few openly gay players throughout its history. While former Las Vegas Raiders star Carl Nassib came out as gay during Pride month in 2021, he remains one of the few players to do so. In total, there have only been 16 openly gay or bisexual NFL players, highlighting the lack of representation and inclusivity in the league.
Williams’ decision to flaunt his pink accessories during the USC Trojans’ game led to searches for “Caleb Williams gay” and “Caleb Williams boyfriend” trending on Google. Interestingly, the search results actually point to Williams’ girlfriend, Valery Orellana. The couple has been together since at least October 2020 and continues to share their relationship on social media.
The quarterback’s choice to paint his nails pink has become somewhat of a trademark for him, dating back to his high school days. Williams has attributed this style choice to his mother, who works as a nail technician. In a 2023 interview, he explained, “My mom does nails. Let’s just start it off there. She’s done it my whole life. It’s just kind of always been around me. Nobody else does it. I just kinda like to do new things.”
In addition to his fashion choices, Williams is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He established the Caleb Cares Foundation, which focuses on anti-bullying initiatives, mental health awareness, and youth development. Despite facing criticism for his appearance, Williams has remained steadfast in his commitment to promoting positivity and inclusivity.
Responding to negative comments on social media, Williams clapped back with humor and confidence. When one user complimented his pink phone, he cheekily replied by pointing out the user’s profile picture. This playful exchange showcased Williams’ ability to handle criticism with grace and wit.
Overall, Williams’ bold fashion statements and unwavering commitment to social causes have solidified his status as a rising star both on and off the field. While facing backlash for his choices, he continues to inspire others to embrace their individuality and stand up against discrimination. In a sports world often characterized by traditional norms and expectations, Williams serves as a beacon of authenticity and acceptance.
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Caleb Williams
