Thuram on racism,Fashion,and Following in Henry’s Footsteps
Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram,currently enjoying a stellar season with 13 goals and 6 assists in 21 matches,recently opened up about a range of topics in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport.
One of the most meaningful discussions revolved around his public stance against France’s National Rally (RN) during the June and July 2024 legislative elections. Thuram, alongside fellow French international Kylian Mbappé, felt compelled to speak out against the party, emphasizing the importance of addressing racism and intolerance.
“It felt natural for Kylian and me to take a stand,” Thuram explained. “As young Black men, we understood the gravity of the situation and felt it was crucial to voice our concerns.”
While Thuram hasn’t personally experienced racism in Italy, unlike some of his fellow players, he made it clear that he wouldn’t hesitate to speak out if he did. “I’ve always been vocal about issues I find unjust,” he stated. “I believe in using my platform to advocate for positive change.”
Beyond the pitch, Thuram revealed his passion for fashion, admitting to receiving modeling offers but preferring to keep it as a hobby for now. Though, he hinted at a potential post-retirement career path inspired by Thierry Henry’s successful transition to American television commentary.
“I admire Titi Henry’s work with CBS,” Thuram shared.”The more relaxed commentary style in the US appeals to me. Plus, I’ve always dreamed of living there.”
Currently thriving in Italy, Thuram carries the weight of a legendary surname. His father, Lilian thuram, etched his name in Serie A history with Parma and Juventus.
“My father prepared me for the scrutiny that comes with our last name,” Thuram admitted. “He warned me that people would judge me based on who I am,not on my own merits.”
Adding to the family legacy, Thuram’s younger brother, Khéphren, recently joined Juventus. “He’s incredibly talented,” Thuram proudly proclaimed. “He’s benefited from learning from both our father and me,which gives him a unique advantage.”
Thuram: Standing Against Intolerance and Chasing His Own Legacy
Today,I’m joined by a rising star in the football world,someone who is making headlines both on and off the pitch. Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram, who’s been absolutely stellar this season, joins us today. Welcome, Marcus.
Marcus Thuram: Thanks for having me.
Moderator: Let’s dive right in. Your stance against the National Rally party in France alongside Kylian Mbappé during the recent elections was both valiant and thought-provoking. as someone who wields considerable influence,how crucial do you think it is for athletes to use their platform to address societal issues?
Thuram: I firmly believe that we have a responsibility to speak out against injustice wherever we see it,nonetheless of our profession.As young Black men, Kylian and I felt compelled to take a stand against the RN’s message of hatred and intolerance. We wanted to be a voice for those who feel marginalized and to show that we stand in solidarity against discrimination.
Moderator: You mentioned that you haven’t personally encountered racism in Italy, which is encouraging. Do you think there’s an obligation for those who haven’t faced thes issues directly to still be vocal allies?
thuram: absolutely. It’s not enough to just be silent and hope things will change. We all have a responsibility to challenge prejudiced attitudes and create a more inclusive society. Just becuase I haven’t experienced racism directly doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. I stand in solidarity with those who have been affected by it and will continue to speak out against it.
Moderator: You’ve spoken openly about your passion for fashion. With those modeling offers rolling in, it seems you might be considering a career on the runway after football.
Thuram: Fashion is definitely a big interest of mine, it’s creative and expressive. Right now, I’m focused on my football career, but maybe further down the line, in my post-retirement years, I can explore those avenues. It’s inspiring to see someone like Thierry Henry succeeding in the world of sports commentary after retiring.
Moderator:
Speaking of Thierry henry,you mentioned being influenced by his move to american television. Have you followed his career post-playing days closely?
Thuram: Definitely. I admire his transition to commentary. The more relaxed and open commentary style in the US appeals to me, it allows personalities to shine through. Plus, I’ve always dreamed of living in the States.
Moderator: You share a legendary surname with your father, Lilian Thuram, a true icon in Italian football. What kind of pressure, if any, did you feel carrying that weight of expectations?
Thuram: My father prepared me for the scrutiny that comes with our name. He warned me that people would judge me based on who I am, not on my own merits. I’m grateful for his guidance and support. I’m focused on carving my own path and proving myself on the pitch.
Moderator: And your younger brother,Khéphren,recently joined Juventus – another family member making waves in Serie A. How does it feel to see him following in your footsteps?
Thuram: I’m incredibly proud of Khéphren. he’s incredibly talented. He’s benefitted from learning from both my father and me,which gives him a unique advantage. I’m excited to see him grow and succeed.
Moderator: Marcus, thank you for this insightful conversation.
Readers,what are your thoughts on Marcus Thuram’s activism and his aspirations beyond football? Let us know in the comments below.
