Gareth Thomas (born 25 July 1974 in Sarn near Bridgend) is a Welsh professional rugby footballer who plays rugby league for the Crusaders of Europe's Super League. He previously played rugby union for the Cardiff Blues his position is normally at fullback, wing or centre and most recently played as a fullback for Wales. On 26 May 2007, he surpassed Gareth Llewellyn as the most-capped Wales player with his 93rd appearance.
A prolific try scorer at international level, Thomas is listed ninth in the world on the all-time Test try scoring list. During the 2007 Rugby World Cup, Thomas created sporting history when he become the first Welshman to win 100 international caps in rugby union. During this game he scored a try and prevented another but Wales lost to Fiji and were eliminated from the tournament.
According to Sports Illustrated, Thomas is notable as the world's only current professional male athlete in a team sport who is openly gay.
Nickname
Gareth Thomas is often referred to by his nickname 'Alfie' owing to a supposed resemblance to a character in a sitcom called ALF. His way of celebrating tries by slapping his head comes from a popular celebration among Cardiff City supporters known as "the Ayatollah".
Rugby league career
Thomas joined Crusaders in March 2010 on a 18 month deal. He made his Crusaders' debut against French side Catalans Dragons on 19 March. Thomas suffered a head injury during his debut, and as a result had to leave the field after thirty minutes. Crusaders went on to win the game 14–6. Thomas went on to score his first try for the Crusaders against Wakefield Trinity in a 20-10 away victory on April 11