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11/09 06:57 CST Germany midfielder Nmecha under scrutiny in Dortmund for
celebrations linked to evangelical group
Germany midfielder Nmecha under scrutiny in Dortmund for celebrations linked to
evangelical group
DORTMUND, Germany (AP) --- Germany midfielder Felix Nmecha is finding that
sport and religion don't mix when it comes to living up to his club Borussia
Dortmund's professed values of tolerance and respect.
Nmecha, a devout Christian, has been criticized by the club's official
supporters' group for goal celebrations associated with the evangelical network
"Ballers in God" after he previously faced allegations of sharing homophobic
and transphobic social media posts.
Nmecha scored two goals against Elversberg for a 2-1 Bundesliga win on
Saturday, but he celebrated by removing an imaginary crown while kneeling and
placing it on the grass in front of him. The gesture is meant to signify "The
King's Return" campaign which is linked to "Ballers in God," a network of
Christian soccer players that was founded in 2015 and frequently shares such
actions on social media.
The Dortmund supporters group pointed to research by German broadcaster ARD
that accuses the "Ballers in God" network of labeling homosexuality as a sin
and abortion as part a plan by Satan.
"We oppose religious networks that, under the guise of faith, propagate a
worldview in which individuals are denigrated or excluded based on their sexual
orientation, gender identity, way of life, or personal choices," the supporters
said in a statement.
"Where religious convictions are used to deny people their dignity or equal
worth, our tolerance for intolerance comes to an end."
The now 26-year-old Nmecha previously faced criticism upon joining Dortmund
from Wolfsburg in 2023, when he shared two homophobic and transphobic posts
from other accounts on Instagram.
Dortmund defended the player at the time, with the club president and CEO
issuing a joint statement to say, "he does not hold any transphobic or
homophobic beliefs."
On Sunday, Dortmund told the Bild tabloid that it understood the fans' concerns
and would speak to the player.
"We expect all employees and players to ensure that their behavior and conduct
align with the legal requirements and core values of Borussia Dortmund. These
values include respect, diversity, equality, and a clear rejection of any form
of discrimination," the club said.
___
See AP's full soccer coverage here
