Robbie Rogers Makes Historic Debut For L.A. Galaxy in 4-0 Win

Robbie Rogers’ debut on Sunday night will go down in the record books, as he becomes the first openly gay athlete to compete in an American sporting event. The L.A. Galaxy jumped all over the Seattle Sounders in the first half, which made way for Rogers who received a standing ovation as he took the pitch in the 77th minute.

Rogers recently had his contract rights traded from the Chicago Fire to the Galaxy before he signed with the team last week. It didn’t take long for the 26-year-old to make his first appearance with the club, and he was all smiles when he entered the match behind the Galaxy’s big lead.

He spent five seasons with the Columbus Crew from 2007-2011 to begin his career before signing with Leeds United in England. He only appeared in four matches for Leeds United before being loaned to Stevenage.

He now returns to the MLS as an American hero for his courage to come out as an openly gay athlete, and Jason Collins, who also came out as an openly gay NBA player, sent Rogers his best wishes before the match on Sunday.

Robbie Rogers’ debut comes after weeks of training to get back in shape for the L.A. Galaxy, though he still has a long way to go before he returns to his top form. Nevertheless, he took the pitch against the Sounders late in the match at the Home Depot Center and the crowd welcomed him as it’s newest member of the Galaxy family.

Rogers has finally found a comfort zone after coming out, and after 13 minutes of play the young forward had himself his first win with his new club. When speaking to reporters after the match, he reminded everyone that the 4-0 win was the key to his historic debut.

Robbie Keane made it possible, as he scored a hat-trick in the first half to put away the Sounders early.

Was Robbie Rogers’ debut on Sunday just the beginning of a successful return to the MLS?