2024 was a banner year for gay men in sports, as athletes and advocates broke records, confronted adversity, and elevated LGBTQ+ representation to new heights.
Here’s a look back at the most powerful moments of the year.
1. Tom Daley’s Emotional Farewell
After dazzling fans at his fifth and final Olympic Games in Paris, British diver Tom Daley announced his retirement with pride.
Daley reflected on his remarkable career, which included four Olympic medals and becoming one of the most visible LGBTQ+ athletes in the world.
His retirement message expressed gratitude for the support he’s received and a desire to focus on his family and advocacy work.
2. Record LGBTQ+ Representation at the Paris Olympics
The 2024 Summer Olympics set a record with 199 openly LGBTQ+ athletes competing, and gay men were at the forefront of many memorable moments:
• Timo Cavelius: The German judoka impressed both on and off the mat, declaring “Homophobia is out!” and using his Olympic platform to inspire others.
• Robbie Manson: The New Zealand rowing star brought his bold personality to the Games, even teasing an OnlyFans collaboration with fellow Olympian Matthew Mitcham.
• Campbell Harrison: The Australian pole vaulter made a powerful statement by kissing his boyfriend in front of a global audience, a bold act of love and defiance against hate.
• Jack Woolley: The Irish taekwondo athlete celebrated his relationship milestone with his boyfriend before competing, showing that love and sports go hand in hand.
3. Jake Daniels: Rising Star in Soccer
Teenage soccer sensation Jake Daniels continued to inspire as one of the youngest openly gay professional players.
Balancing his rising career with his role as a trailblazer, Daniels has become a role model for young LGBTQ+ athletes around the globe.
4. Jake Eldridge: Speaking His Truth
Former Rutgers football star Jake Eldridge opened up about his journey of coming out in sports, sharing his challenges and triumphs in navigating his identity as a gay athlete.
His candid story highlighted the importance of visibility and support for queer athletes.
5. Rylan Clark Takes on Soccer Homophobia
TV presenter and LGBTQ+ advocate Rylan Clark confronted soccer’s ongoing struggles with homophobia after revealing he was attacked at a soccer game earlier this year.
+Related: Sky Sports’ Mark McAdam on Daily Gay Identity Hurdles
His bravery in speaking out and calling for accountability shed light on the persistent challenges facing gay fans and players in the sport.
6. Josh Cavallo’s Inspirational Year
Australian soccer player Josh Cavallo made headlines once again:
• Returning to the field after a long injury and scoring a game-winning goal.
• Proposing to his boyfriend, Leighton Morrell, in a touching pitch-side moment.
• Announcing plans to open a luxury gay resort in Bali, cementing his role as an entrepreneur and advocate.
7. João L. Reis: Courage on the Tennis Court
Brazilian tennis star João Lucas Reis da Silva came out as gay this year, publicly sharing his love for his boyfriend and becoming a symbol of pride and courage in the ATP Tour.
Conclusion: Celebrating Progress
From record-breaking representation at the Olympics to personal triumphs in soccer, tennis, and beyond, 2024 proved to be a landmark year for gay men in sports.
These athletes not only excelled in their respective fields but also used their platforms to inspire and advocate for a more inclusive future.
+Related: Finland’s First Openly Gay Hockey Player Dead, Boyfriend Detained