MLS, USL investigating Robbie Rogers' claims opponent used anti-gay slur

Openly gay soccer player Robbie Rogers says he was the victim of a homophobic slur Saturday on the pitch, he wrote on Facebook on Sunday.

Rogers, a defender with the LA Galaxy, returned to action Saturday after ankle surgery, suiting up for LA Galaxy II against the USL's Orange County Blues, and said the incident occurred late in the game.

Here's an excerpt from Rogers' post:

In the heat of the last fifteen minutes of the game a player from the opposing team called me a "queer" repeatedly. To be honest my initial reaction was one of shock. This is my fourth season back in the MLS and I've yet to hear another player use that or any other gay slur during a game.

Rogers, 29, came out four years ago and added that while he was very upset in the moment, he refused to let his anger get the best of him.

I'm happy that I practiced restraint worthy of my sport. I'm thankful for the many players on my team and even the opposing one who apologized to me for one man's actions. ...

But mostly I'm proud of myself. I am proud more than ever that I had the courage to come out as a queer man. I feel so fortunate to have gotten to share my story with others and to have gotten to play this sport I love so much as an openly gay person. I am, more than ever, thankful to have teammates and a family that love and support me for the son, brother, partner, father and queer player that I am.

MLS announced Sunday night that an investigation by the league and the USL is underway.

"Although the investigation is ongoing, both MLS and the USL have zero tolerance for homophobia or any type of discrimination in our game," a statement read.