The situation began Sunday when Ryan made a post on Instagram referring to the tragedy in Orlando, in which 49 people were killed at a gay nightclub.
The post was a rainbow photo with the words: “more love #orlando”
Among the responses was one asking: “Where in the bible does it say it’s ok to be homo sexual? (sic).”
Ryan responded in turn: “Please unfollow me. You’re a terrible human being … please stop cheering for the Seahawks. We don’t want piece of (expletive) fans like you. Thanks.
According to the Times, Ryan deleted his Twitter and Instagram accounts following the virtual tête-à-tête, saying that he felt as if his popular account was “breeding hate among people,” and that he was disgusted by the fact that people jumped to the fan’s defense. He claims his only regret is that he “didn’t respond more harshly.”
It’s heartening to see this show of solidarity and empathy within sports culture. More like this, please! More Richard Sherman telling billionaires to pay for their own damn stadiums. We can’t have more Marshawn Lynch taking control of his own labor because he retired, but more of that from other players, too! Go hawks.
