Richard Sellers Richard Sellers

OVER THE WEEKEND, British rugby player Keegan Hirst became the first openly gay rugby union player.

In an interview with The Sunday Mirror, Hirst spoke frankly about coming to grips with his sexuality and coming out to his teammates.

At first I couldn’t even say ‘I’m gay’ in my head, let alone out loud. Now I feel like I’m letting out a long breath that I’ve held in for a long time.

People keep saying I’m brave – I don’t feel brave. I’m just talking about me. There might be other players in the same position I was. If there are I’d tell them to just be honest with themselves. The support from my team-mates and other rugby league players has really surprised me, it’s all been positive.

Hirst has received widespread support for his landmark announcement.

Among those to reach out to Hirst? None other than Emma Watson.

The actress and human rights campaigner reached out to Hirst in a series of powerful tweets this evening and praised his courage in coming out.

To top it all off, she even called him a hero.

And it seems the feeling of respect is mutual.

After being followed by Emma Watson on Twitter, Hirst pledged his support for her #HeForShe campaign.

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