21-Year-Old Tennis Star Courageously Comes Out as Gay: "I Refused to Live a Lie"

A TENNIS player has come out as gay and courageously stated that pretending to be someone else was “never an option.”

Mika Brunold, 21, expressed that going public with his sexuality was a “step forward” for himself after feeling “pressure to remain silent.”

However, he added that in an “ideal world,” there would be no need to come out at all.

Brunold is now the second active male professional tennis player to come out, joining Brazilian Joao Lucas Reis Da Silva.

The Swiss athlete shared an emotional statement on Instagram with his 9,500 followers.

World No. 310 Brunold wrote: “Hello. Today, I want to share something personal with you.

“As a professional player, I have dedicated countless hours to honing my game, my physique, and my mindset.

“Throughout this journey, one of the most important lessons I've learned is that success on the court isn't solely about physical ability—it's also about discovering your true self and remaining authentic.

“I've spent a lot of time contemplating how to discuss this. While it hasn't always been easy, hiding my true self and pretending to be someone I’m not was never an option.

“That’s why I believe it’s time for me to open up and share with you that I’m gay.”

Brunold then elaborated on his fears, pride, and gratitude surrounding his sexuality, announcement, and support system.

He continued: “Being gay means more than just loving the same gender—it also involves navigating challenges that many people never have to consider.

“The fear of not being accepted, the pressure to remain silent, the feeling of being different. But I have grown, and I am proud of who I am today.

“I’m sharing this to take a step for myself, but also because I believe this topic isn't discussed enough in sports.

“I envision a world where coming out isn't even necessary.

“I am profoundly grateful for everyone who has supported me. Without you, I wouldn't be the person I am today.”

The tennis community rallied around Brunold in the comments section.

Kim Clijsters, Eva Lys, Viktoria Golubic, and Jil Teichmann were among those who expressed their support.

David Chen commented: “It takes immense self-belief, self-love, and incredible bravery to come out during a tennis career. I’m truly proud of you and look forward to celebrating with you in person.”

The Gay Tennis Pod added: “It takes a lot of courage! We are proud of you.”

Brunold achieved his career-high ranking of 289th in August.

He usually competes on the Challenger Tour—the tier below the ATP Tour—and has reached two semi-finals this year, including a match against Brit Henry Searle in Nottingham in January.

He also received spots in qualifying for the Gstaad 250 and Basel Indoors 500 events in his home country of Switzerland.

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Belgian duo Alison van Uytvanck and Greet Minnen became the first same-sex couple to compete in doubles together at Wimbledon in 2019.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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