I guess the question, then, is what constitutes silencing them? The specter of sanction from a club or league? Or does it need to entail government action? Not many had a problem when Toulouse chose to exclude Muslim players from a match in which they declined to participate in speech advocating against homophobia and for LGBT rights and acceptance. Would this constitute silencing?
At the time, I think the thinking, for some at least, was that these players worked for private organizations/Leagues and should abide by their rules and values if they wish to continue participating as employees. Otherwise, they can go play elsewhere in a locale that more closely aligns with their values, and likely for less money. In this instance, the players were declining speech (initially), rather than actively speaking out, if that distinction even matters.
