Robbie Rogers makes debut for Galaxy

Robbie Rogers is the first openly gay player in Major League Soccer.

Jeff Gross/Getty Images

CARSON, Calif. (AP) -- Robbie Rogers has become the first openly gay male athlete to play in a U.S. professional league.

Rogers made his Los Angeles debut Sunday night, entering as a substitute in the 77th minute with the Galaxy leading the Seattle Sounders 4-0.

Rogers received loud cheers from the crowd as he ran onto the pitch. Fans chanted his last name.

Before the game, Rogers was the focus of six photographers after he and the other subs sat on the bench.

Marc Burch, a Sounders substitute, slapped hands with Rogers as he headed toward the visiting bench. Seattle coach Sigi Schmid, who once coached the Galaxy, sought out Rogers for a supportive pre-game hug.

Rogers signed with the team Saturday after being acquired from the Chicago Fire. The Galaxy traded Mike Magee to his hometown Fire in exchange for the rights to Rogers, who signed a multiyear deal.