Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez has issued an apology after facing a strong backlash and being hit with a fine for sexist comments he made online.
The Mexican striker is considered to be a Manchester United icon, producing 59 goals and 16 assists across 157 games from 2010 to 2015.
During Hernandez’s five-year spell at Old Trafford, United won two Premier League titles under legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
The 37-year-old, currently playing for Chivas, posted on social media last week that women were ‘eradicating masculinity’.
Hernandez: Women are ‘eradicating masculinity’
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‘Women, you are failing, you are eradicating masculinity, making society hypersensitive,’ Hernandez said.
‘Don’t be afraid to be women, to allow yourselves to be led by a man. You want a man to provide, but for you, cleaning is patriarchal oppression… interesting.’
Hernandez widely criticised for sexist remarks
Hernandez’s remarks were widely criticised with the footballer fined by theMexico Football Federation and condemned by the country’s president.
Claudia Sheinbaum, elected last year as the first female president in Mexico’s 200-year history, said: ‘Chicharito is a very good soccer player. But when it comes to his opinion on women… he still has a lot to learn.’
She branded Hernandez’s comments as ‘very sexist’ and added: ‘I’m a mother, I’m a grandmother, I’m also a housewife. But I’m also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Women can be whatever we want.’
Hernandez issues apology for sexist comments
Hernandez, Mexico’s all-time leading goalscorer who also played for West Ham and had a loan spell at Real Madrid, has now issued an apology.
‘Thank you sincerely to everyone that has supported me, to whom with respect, have shared their perspectives with me and pushed me to be a better person,’ Hernandez said.
‘I deeply regret any confusion or discomfort my recent words have caused; it was never my intention to reduce, hurt, or divide.
‘As a father, a man, and a member of this community, my priority is to act with respect, humility, and responsibility.
‘I’m listening, reflecting, and committed to expressing myself with greater clarity and sensitivity, especially with such sensitive topics.’
The Mexico Football Federation fined Hernandez following an investigation for ‘promoting sexist stereotypes’.
His current club Chivas also issued a statement which read: ‘[The] recent messages posted on social media represent an individual’s stance, which are contrary to the principles and values of our institution.
‘The club has taken the appropriate action in accordance with its internal regulations.’
Hernandez, a divorced father of two, added: ‘I believe change begins with oneself. I will take this opportunity to understand, grow, and continue working to be a better version of myself, from a place of honesty, love for my family, my values, and love for all of you.
‘Thank you for your understanding, dedication, love, and companionship on this journey.’
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