Campbell Johnstone, a New Zealand prop who played three Tests in 2005 including two against the British and Irish Lions, has received support from former coaches and peers in the rugby world after becoming the first All Blacks player to come out as gay.
The 43-year-old Johnstone made the announcement on a New Zealand current affairs television program on Monday, saying he had been "living a lie" and leading "a double life" before acknowledging his sexuality.
"If I open up that door and magically make that closet disappear, then we're going to help a lot of people," said Johnstone, who also played 38 Super Rugby matches for the Christchurch-based Crusaders between 2004 and 2008.
"I pushed that side of me down deeper and deeper. I went to some interesting places."
Johnstone follows retired cricketer Heath Davis, who last August became the first current or former New Zealand international to come out.
New Zealand Rugby quickly supported Johnstone's decision to come out, praising him for "having the courage to share his story and helping create a more inclusive game".
NZR chief executive Mark Robinson said Johnstone's "strength and visibility will pave the way for others".
"Rugby is a sport that is welcoming to everyone and a place where people should feel safe to be who they are. We want to be clear, no matter who you love rugby has your back," he said in a statement.
New Zealand Sports Minister and former deputy prime minister Grant Robertson, who is gay, said Johnstone's announcement was a "big moment" and thanked him for "blazing this trail".
"Now with the All Blacks another barrier has been broken. I hope it inspires future generations to be open, happy and comfortable. There is still a long way to go, but this feels a very significant step," he said on Instagram.
Sir Graham Henry, who coached New Zealand to a Rugby World Cup win in 2011, and who was in charge when Johnstone made his appearances for his country, welcomed the announcement, according to Radio New Zealand.
"Campbell's obviously thought long and hard about this, and I'm just delighted that he's got the confidence to do that," Henry said.
"And if there's other rugby players with the same sexual orientation … hopefully they'll feel confident now to do the same thing as Campbell has done.
"So I think it's set a good example."
All Blacks player Brad Weber tweeted his support.
"Legend! Hugely influential moment for so many young people, rugby players especially, who might be questioning their sexuality," Weber said.
"Much respect, Campbell."
New Zealand women's rugby union player Ruby Tui also took to social media to express her support for Johnstone.
The Black Ferns star posted on Instagram, saying: "I've never been more proud of an All Black, ever. Thank you, Campbell."
AP/ABC
