LGBT+ History Month: Why it is still tough for sports stars to come out
We're looking at the problems facing LGBT athletes and why so few feel they can truly express themselves.
Last updated 18th Feb 2022
Sports clubs at all levels are being encouraged to look out for players struggling with their sexuality or gender identity as LGBT+ History Month starts.
In UK, there is not one out male professional footballer.
This is something that is concerning for Chairperson of Saltire Thistle, an inclusive Glasgow football team, Stuart Bonner.
He told heat radio: "Young people need role models they can relate to and aspire to be like.
"There is nobody in men's professional football in Scotland for LGBT kids to look up to.
"A young Ronaldo or Messi could be out there, but too afraid to show their true potential because of this lad culture or masculine environment in the sport."
It isn't just the stigma of coming out as gay or transgender that stops sporting stars from being honest about who they are, there is also concern over a backlash from fans.
Stuart added: "Sport can be about money and there could be issues with sponsors or transfers to other clubs.
"For example, if you are a male footballer who comes out as gay then that essentially rules you out from ever playing in the Middle East or Asia."
Glasgow born footballer turned Aston Villa star, Ruesha Littlejohn, has been honest about her sexuality for a few years, but admits she struggled to be open for a long time.
"There are quite a lot of gay women in football and so I always found it an inclusive environment, but it was hard to tell my other friends who weren't in the sport."
The former Glasgow City player recognises that it is still hard for so many LGBT athletes to be themselves and wants to use her platform to inspire others.
"I am so comfortable with who I am now that I want to do my best for other people.
"It sounds cheesy, but if I can help just one person to feel better about themselves then it is really benefitting the cause."
LGBT+ History Month takes place every February to increase visibility for members of the community and raise awareness of the issues affecting people.
Glasgow City FC boss, Laura Montgomery, says it means a lot to her for personal reasons.
"My partner who died almost three years ago was an LGBT+ History Month icon and it means that her legacy is marked for what she achieved in sport and academia.
"I think it is great because so many influential LGBT people are never spoken about and if we don't have these educational programmes then these pioneers are unknown."