As the world watched the 2024 Paris Olympics, we witnessed history being made — not just in the records broken and the medals won, but in the diversity that graced the global stage. From the moment singer Celine Dion defied her critical health condition to open the ceremony, we all knew these games would be something to behold. We watched in awe as sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson proved she wasn’t just back but better. We held our breath when Simone Biles flipped, leaped, and soared her way to her 11th medal, making her the most decorated gymnast in history. We couldn’t help but stand up and off our feet as Stephen Curry shot a skyrocketing 3-pointer over center Victor Wembanyama of France, securing a gold medal for the U.S. men’s basketball team.
This year’s Olympics saw the most out LGBTQIA+ athletes’ medals and the most women’s medals for the United States. As an LGBTQIA+ athlete and former NFL player, I was proud and hopeful. The progress on display was nothing short of inspiring, a beacon of what sports can and should be: a place where every individual, regardless of their gender, sexuality, or background, can compete at the highest level and be celebrated for who they are.
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But as the Olympic flame was extinguished and the world shifted its attention back to daily life rhythms, I faced a stark and disheartening reality. The NFL season is fast approaching, and once again, we are reminded that in the game I love with all my heart, there is not a single out male athlete, not in the NFL, and not in any of the major male-dominated sports leagues in the United States.
This contrast is impossible to ignore. How is it that on the global stage, where athletes from every corner of the world come together, we see such a rich tapestry of representation, yet in our own backyard, the silence is deafening? The truth is, the issue runs much deeper than the courage or willingness of athletes to live their truth. It stems from a culture shaped by misogyny, anti-gay bias, and patriarchy, forces that begin to influence sports culture and athletes at a young age. While not all sports leagues are affected, the toxic environment in many male-dominated sports creates barriers for LGBTQIA+ athletes. As a nation, we lose most LGBTQIA+ athletes long before they reach the pro level, often in their youth, where these harmful dynamics push them out of the game.
To see true representation at the highest levels of sports, we must start by addressing these issues at the grassroots level. We need to make all sports, especially male youth sports, more inclusive. This means challenging and changing the toxic aspects of sports culture that marginalize young athletes based on their gender identity or sexual orientation. It’s a national responsibility to ensure that every child, regardless of who they are, feels safe and welcome in sports from the very beginning.
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In 2015, I was drafted into the NFL, a dream realized after years of hard work and dedication. However, after publicly coming out, it wasn’t until 2019 that I truly began my battle — not just for a position on a team but for acceptance in a league that often struggles with inclusion. I know what it means to navigate the complexities of being both an NFL player and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. The fear of rejection, the pressure to conform, and the ever-present threat of discrimination or fear of being outed and losing your dream of playing in the NFL can be paralyzing. It is a weight that too many athletes still carry and should no longer be tolerated. The time for change is long overdue.
Billy Bean, MLB ambassador of inclusion, moderates a panel discussion during the 2015 Sports Diversity and Inclusion Symposium at Citi Field in the Queens borough of New York City on Sept. 29, 2015.
Alex Trautwig/MLB via Getty Images
As I reflect on these issues, I am also reminded of the recent loss of a towering figure in the fight for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sports, Billy Bean. A baseball legend and the MLB senior vice president for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Bean was more than just a great athlete, he was a beacon of hope and change for so many, myself included.
Bean’s work off the field has transformed men’s sports. His dedication to creating a more inclusive environment in MLB is a legacy that will continue to inspire athletes and advocates. I can confidently say that his efforts have made it easier for LGBTQIA+ athletes like me to stand proudly in our truth. I hope to be in the NFL, even a fraction of what Billy was to the MLB.
Bean died at 60 of acute myeloid leukemia, but his influence will be felt for generations to come. You will be missed but never forgotten. Rest in power, Billy.
The NFL and other major men’s sports leagues have an opportunity — a responsibility — to foster an environment where athletes feel safe and supported to be their authentic selves. This is not just about making statements or posting on social media, it’s about taking real, concrete actions demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It’s about ensuring that the next generation of athletes doesn’t have to choose between love of the game and the ability to live openly and authentically. The NFL has committed itself to a partnership with GLAAD, and in the past three seasons, we’ve seen them host A Night of Pride during Super Bowl week. Still, each year, there has been zero attendance from active players in the league, and the event often conflicts with other NFL celebrations such as NFL Honors, making it almost impossible for players to participate. The progress is there, but we have to be critical and consistent in a league with limitless resources. We can say, “Good job, do better.”
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We’ve seen what is possible on the global stage. Now it’s time for the NFL and other major U.S. sports leagues to step up. The progress we’ve witnessed in the Olympics should not be the exception but the standard.
To all the athletes still waiting for the right time, moment, and environment to come out: You are not alone. Countless people stand with you, support you, and will continue to fight for a world where you can be all of who you are on and off the field.
To all the young athletes feeling unsure, isolated, or like they don’t belong: Please know that you are not alone. The world of sports is changing for the better, and so many people see you, value you, and work tirelessly to make sure you can thrive just as you are. Stick with your passion, hold onto your dreams, and remember you are loved and supported. Your presence in sports is needed, and together, we are building a future where every athlete, including you, can play with pride and joy.
The journey is far from over, but together, we can ensure that every athlete everywhere experiences inclusion, authenticity, and pride in the next chapter.
