Swiss tennis player Mika Brunold has come out as gay, becoming the second active male professional tennis player in the history of the sport.
On Instagram in late November postBrunold shared the news with fans and the wider sports world.
“One of the most important things I’ve learned is that success on the court is not just about physical skills, it’s about discovering your personality and staying true to yourself,” Brunold wrote. “That’s why I felt it was time to open up and share with you that I am gay.”
The 21-year-old also wrote candidly about his experiences as a homosexual, noting that it “doesn’t just mean loving someone of the same sex,” but often includes fear of rejection, pressure to remain silent about one’s identity, and isolation. Because I feel different.
Brunold, who reached a career-high No. 289 in the ATP Singles Rankings in August, said he hopes his decision will reduce prejudice against openly gay athletes and encourage others to live openly.
“I don’t think this is talked about enough in the sports world,” he wrote. “I believe that in an ideal world, we wouldn’t even have to ‘come out.’”
Other professional athletes also expressed support.
Belgian tennis legend Kim Clijsters, a former world No. 1 in women’s singles, responded to Brunold’s post with a heart emoji.
Queer American gymnast and Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez also publicly welcomed Brunold.
“Congratulations and welcome to the party 🥹♥️,” Hernandez replied on Instagram.
Brunold’s announcement followed that of Brazil’s João Lucas Reis da Silva, who came out publicly in late 2024 via a simple Instagram. post Happy birthday to her boyfriend.
“I wasn’t thinking anything…I just wanted to post a photo with him,” said Reis da Silva said About her boyfriend, actor and model Gui Sampaio. He had been out with friends and family for five years before taking this post.
Despite this, many LGBTQ athletes still feel pressure to remain closeted, believing it is safer for their careers.
According to American Psychiatric Associationnearly 80% of young LGBTQ athletes don’t talk to their coaches for fear of rejection. As a result, only 20-29% of LGBTQ youth participate in sports, compared to 68% of non-LGBTQ youth.
Stories like Brunold’s and Reis da Silva’s could help create a more welcoming sports culture and make it easier for young LGBTQ athletes to compete openly.
Source: Metro Weekly – www.metroweekly.com
