Gay Personalities
IAN THORPE
After years of denial, swimming champion Ian Thorpe finally revealed he was gay in an exclusive interview with Sir Michael Parkinson. The five-time Olympic gold medallist and Australia’s most successful Olympic athlete to date, had revealed his sexuality in an interview aired on Australia’s Network Ten.
Thorpe, known as the “Thorpedo” for his prowess in the swimming pool, broke 22 world records and won five Olympic gold medals. At the 2000 Sydney Olympics, he won three gold and two silver medals, making him the most successful athlete at the Games. He also won 10 gold medals at the Commonwealth Games.
The interview, also details the swimmer’s battle with depression, drugs and alcohol, which caused him to check into a rehabilitation unit in early 2014. The revelations were dramatic particularly because Thorpe has always vehemently denied rumours of his homosexuality.
Aged 14, Thorpe became the youngest male to represent Australia. His victory in the 400m freestyle at the 1998 Perth World Championships made him the youngest individual male world champion. After that, Thorpe became master of the 400m freestyle, winning the event at every Olympic, World, Commonwealth and Pan Pacific Swimming Championships until his break after the 2004 Olympics.
He originally retired from swimming in 2006, aged 24, due to waning motivation. He attempted a comeback in 2011 and 2012, but failed to qualify for the London Olympics. It was subsequently announced that he was targeting qualification for the 2013 World Championships in Barcelona and later the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow but was forced to abandon his plans due to a shoulder injury that almost cost him his arm.
He has, however, enjoyed success as a sports commentator and worked for the BBC during the London Olympics.
The revelation sparked a frenzy on social media, with many coming out in support of the swimmer. “Ian Thorpe we’re proud of YOU Regardless of sexuality, achievements, medals or anything else … You’re an Aussie who we’ll love & stand by,” @2dayFMbreakfast wrote on Twitter. “Big love to @IanThorpe!” tweeted@GayTimesMag.
“‘I can only hope Thorpe’s revelations help millions of teens struggling inside themselves to find the courage to be them. Snaps for Thorpie,” wrote Lady Catherine @KadyLio, while Anthony Venn-Brown @gayambassador tweeted: “Life’s much brighter on this side of the closet @IanThorpe. Welcome to being you.”
spinemen 