This archive report was first published on 19 July 2019.
On July 19, 2019, British world champion diver Tom Daley made a heartfelt plea to gay footballers to be open about their sexuality.
Speaking at the World Championships in Gwangju, South Korea, Daley, who came out as gay at 19, emphasized the importance of having openly gay athletes in high-profile sports.
"It can be a really scary thing to grow up feeling different," Daley said. "To have someone like a footballer being open, to see that I think could be life-changing for lots of young kids."
As an openly gay athlete himself, Daley has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. In 2018, he called on nations with anti-gay laws to relax their stance, highlighting the need for greater acceptance and understanding.
With his message of hope and inclusivity, Daley has inspired countless young fans around the world. His words serve as a powerful reminder that being true to oneself is the key to achieving one's dreams.
