Sportspersons who came out as LGBTQ - In Pictures

Here's a look at the sportspersons who've come out as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people (LGBTQ).

Japanese soccer player Kumi Yokoyama said they are transgender — a revelation praised in the US where they play in the National Women's Soccer League but an identity not legally recognised in Japan. The 27-year-old forward for the Washington Spirit said they felt more comfortable with their own gender identity while living in the United States, where teammates and friends are more open to gender and sexual diversity. Credit: DH Photo

Las Vegas Raiders defensive lineman Carl Nassib came out as gay. In a short video he recorded and posted to his Instagram account made him the first active NFL player to do so. “I’ve been meaning to do this for a while now,” Nassib said. Credit: USA Today Sports

Ski Champion Gus Kenworthy, a former US freestyle skier who now competes for Britain, came out as gay on ESPN in 2015. Credit: Instagram

Brazilian soccer player Marta is currently in a relationship with her Orlando Pride teammate Toni Pressley. Credit: AFP Photo

In an interview with Out magazine, the outspoken US Women’s National Team soccer star Megan Rapinoe revealed herself as gay. Credit: AFP Photo

In 2013, soccer star Robbie Rogers came out as gay through his blog. Credit: Instagram/robbierogers

WNBA's Sue Bird, who is engaged to Megan Rapinoe, became the first gay couple to be featured in ESPN’s Body Issue. Credit: AFP Photo

Athele Dutee Chand became India’s first gay sportsperson. After revealing her identity in May 2019, she said she would fight for the right to marry her partner. Credit: PTI Photo

Olympic gold medal-winning decathlete Caitlyn Jenner shook the sports fraternity when she came out as transgender in 2015. Credit: Instagram