Brian Boitano Comes Out

Days after being named to the Obama administration’s Sochi delegation, Olympic gold medalist Brian Boitano has finally acknowledged that he is gay. Via USA Today:

Boitano’s announcement comes two days after he was named by President Obama to the opening ceremony delegation that also includes Billie Jean King, the tennis legend who is openly gay. Boitano, 50, declined to discuss his sexuality in an interview for the book Inside Edge in 1995. Two-time U.S. ice hockey Olympic medalist Caitlin Cahow, who also is openly gay, was named to the closing ceremony delegation. Their presence in the delegations has been viewed as a strong message from Obama against Russia’s anti-gay propaganda law.

Here’s a portion of Boitano’s statement:

It is my desire to be defined by my achievements and my contributions. While I am proud to play a public role in representing the American Olympic Delegation as a former Olympic athlete, I have always reserved my private life for my family and friends and will continue to do so. I am many things: a son, a brother, and uncle, a friend, an athlete, a cook, an author, and being gay is just one part of who I am. First and foremost I am an American athlete and I am proud to live in a country that encourages diversity, openness and tolerance. As an athlete, I hope we can remain focused on the Olympic spirit which celebrates achievement in sport by peoples of all nations.