The AFL has banned West Coast Eagles player Jack Graham for four matches after he admitted to using a “highly offensive” homophobic slur against a GWS opponent.
The incident occurred during the round 17 match between the Eagles and Giants in Perth this month.
Graham was found guilty of breaching AFL rule 2.3(a) for conduct unbecoming.
He self-reported the incident to the Eagles, who informed the AFL integrity unit on Friday.
The AFL said Graham’s sanction would have been heavier had he not self-reported.
“Graham used a highly offensive homophobic slur against a GWS Giants opponent, which demeans and denigrates persons regardless of their sexuality,” an AFL statement read.
“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.
“Graham also rang the AFL CEO [Andrew Dillon] directly to apologise.
“He will not be eligible to play for the West Coast Eagles or any level of football for the next four weeks.
“As a part of the sanction, Graham will also undertake Pride in Sport education.”
Graham said he took responsibility for his behaviour.
“I am very remorseful for the word I used and know such language has no place in our community or our game,” Graham said in an Eagles statement.
“I have offered my unreserved apology to the Giants player and Greater Western Sydney and would also like to publicly apologise for my comment.
“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.”
Eagles chief executive Don Pyke said the club was “very disappointed” by Graham’s comment.
“The word Jack used is completely unacceptable and does not align with societal and club values,” Pyke said.
“Jack understands the harmful effects comments like these can have on others and he has been honest in addressing this matter.”
AFL head of integrity and security Tony Keane said the word used by Graham was “hurtful”.
“The AFL is very clear that homophobia has no place in our game, nor in the community,” Keane said.
“We have come a long way as a code, but this incident demonstrates there is so much more to be done, and we will continue to work together to improve our game as a safe and inclusive environment for all.
“The AFL will continue to consider the specific circumstances in each incident in determining appropriate responses.”
Three AFL players were suspended for using homophobic slurs during matches in 2024.
Gold Coast’s Wil Powell (five matches) and Port Adelaide’s Jeremy Finlayson (three matches) were banned in the AFL.
St Kilda’s Lance Collard received a six-match penalty following a slur made towards two Williamstown players in a VFL fixture.
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