A former New Zealand rugby player has just come out as gay, becoming the first All Black to publicly do so.
Campbell Johnstone played in three international matches for the All Blacks — New Zealand’s national rugby union team — back in 2005. He told TVNZ on Monday that he had been “living a lie,” focused on his dream of playing for the team and believing his sexuality conflicted with his image of an All Black man as “manly, strong, possibly with a wife and kids.”
He eventually told his friends and family that he is gay, but decided to come out publicly to help take the pressure off any aspiring or current rugby players who may be struggling the way he did.
“If I can be the first All Black that comes out as gay and take away the pressure and stigma surrounding the issue it can actually help other people,” he said. “Then the public will know that there is one in amongst the All Blacks and it could be one of the final pieces in the puzzle sports-wise that gives everyone closure.”
Johnstone’s willingness to come forward and share this part of himself openly has already meant a lot to fans and advocates, who have highlighted the importance of his candor on social media.
New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson also shared a statement praising Johnstone “for sharing his authentic story.”
“Rugby is a sport that is welcoming to everyone and a place where people should feel safe to be who they are,” he said. “We know that there are people who have not always been comfortable to be who they are in rugby. We want to be clear, no matter who you love, rugby has your back.”
