West Coast Eagles player Jack Graham has been suspended for four matches after admitting to using a “highly offensive” homophobic slur during a recent AFL game.
The 27-year-old self-reported the incident to his Perth-based club after making the slur towards an opponent during a clash with the Greater Western Sydney Giants earlier this month. Following Graham’s disclosure, the club notified the AFL Integrity Unit.
The AFL confirmed the four-match suspension, stating the slur “demeans and denigrates persons regardless of their sexuality.” As part of his penalty, Graham is also required to undergo Pride in Sport education.
“Graham has received a four-match sanction, with the AFL taking into account Graham’s self-reporting of the incident, along with his private apology and contrition,” the league said.
He will be ineligible to play at any level of football during this suspension period.
Graham Issues Public Apology
In a statement released through the West Coast Eagles, Graham apologised for his actions and took full responsibility.
“I am very remorseful for the word I used and know such language has no place in our community or our game,” he said.
“What I said does not reflect my values or our club values. I made a mistake and need to be better and will prove that through my actions going forward.”
Graham also extended an unreserved apology to the targeted Giants player and the Greater Western Sydney club.
League and Club Response
West Coast Eagles CEO Don Pyke expressed the club’s disappointment in the incident.
“Jack understands the harmful effects comments like these can have on others and he has been honest in addressing this matter,” Pyke said.
AFL Head of Integrity Tony Keane stressed that the league considered the full context of the incident when determining the sanction.
“Graham’s sanction would have been higher if he hadn’t self-reported and understood his comment was totally inappropriate,” Keane noted.
“Everyone understands the word he used is both hurtful and totally unacceptable in any setting, ever.”
He added that while the AFL has made significant progress in fostering inclusion, this incident is a stark reminder of the work that remains.
“The AFL is very clear that homophobia has no place in our game, nor in the community. We have come a long way as a code, but this incident demonstrates there is so much more to be done.”
