Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, who the Mexican Football Federation fined and gave a warning to for his sexist social media posts, issued a public apology on Thursday for his remarks following widespread backlash, including by Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
“I am deeply sorry for any confusion or upset my recent words have caused; It was never my intention to limit, hurt or divide,” Hernández posted on social media on Thursday.
He also added, “I believe that change begins with oneself. I will take advantage of this opportunity to understand, grow and continue working to be a better version of myself, from honesty, love for my family, my values and love for all of you.”
The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward, who now plays for Chivas Guadalajara, had come under fire for posts that have been described as sexist and out of touch. Among his many declarations, he said, “women are failing” and “eradicating masculinity.”
Hernández’s controversial posts remain on his timeline as of Thursday afternoon.
On Wednesday night, FMF announced it had launched an investigation into the sexist comments Hernández made and handed the player a fine and a warning. The federation did not specify how large a fine, and hinted that more sanctions could follow.
“A few days ago on the social platform ‘TIK TOK’, the player Javier ‘El Chicharito’ Hernández issued statements that promote sexist stereotypes,” the FMF said.
“For this reason, the FMF Gender and Diversity Commission announces that it has initiated an investigation process that seeks to prevent and punish this type of behavior, determining to impose a financial penalty and a warning to Javier ‘El Chicharito’ Hernandez, stating that this Commission will take more severe measures in the event of a repeat offense.”
The player’s club Chivas also issued a statement Wednesday saying that “recent messages posted on social media represent an individual position that is unrelated to the principles and values of our institution.”
The club added, “We are known for promoting safe and inclusive environments, with a constant focus on equal opportunities for women and men. All of us who are part of the Club must be fully aware of the example we set both on and off the field.”
The footballer’s remarks have caused a flurry of backlash, with the most pointed criticisms coming from Sheinbaum, the first woman to occupy Mexico’s presidency in the country’s 200-year history.
“Chicharito is a very good footballer,” Shainbaum said on Wednesday, when asked to weigh in during a press conference. “But in the case of his opinion regarding women, I think he still has a lot to learn. Because women can be whatever we want to be, and it is a matter of equality.”
She went on to describe the 37-year-old’s remarks, specifically any inclination that women’s roles are limited to the household, as “muy machista,” or sexist.
“Let’s call it by its name,” Sheinbaum continued, “And it is not to argue with Chicharito, because he is a great soccer player and has represented Mexico at different times. But it is important that all men in our country recognize women as people.”
The 63-year-old scientist was elected as the first female president last year, after serving as mayor of Mexico City.
“I’m a mother. I’m a grandmother. I’m also a housewife,” Sheinbaum said. “But I am also Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Women can be whatever we want to be.”
Hernandez, the all-time leading scorer for Mexico’s national team, returned to his boyhood club last year after signing a two-year deal with Chivas. He is currently injured and missed the first two matches of the Apertura tournament.
Hernández is known for being outspoken on his social media platforms, which include more than 6 million followers on Instagram. In the past, he used his celebrity to discuss topics such as depression, anxiety and failure.
In 2022, as he found his form on the pitch and hoped to make Mexico’s World Cup squad, he continued campaigning for mental health awareness. In an interview with The Athletic that year, Hernández said, “Every word that comes out of my mind are reminders of who I am in that moment. I can stand it if you don’t like me anymore. I’m just going to be me. And it’s very complicated.”
(Photo: Francisco Vega / Getty Images)
