7 Queer Women Athletes Who Stole the Olympic Spotlight

Sports has long been seen as something separate from the LGBTQ+ community. So much so, they must create their own spaces to recognize gay athletes. To that, add the stigma of being gay in sports and having to live and compete in the closet. Today, some gay athletes have become empowered and are challenging the system. Below are seven such female Olympians who aren’t afraid to shine even if the people around them want to douse their flame.

Sue Bird

Basketball legend Sue Bird has taken home the gold five times. Now she coaches future female basketball players for Team USA. She was encouraged to stay in the closet during her sports career but defied that advice and came out publicly in 2017.

Megan Rapinoe

Football gold medalist Megan Rapinoe is an Olympic athlete and trailblazer for the LGBTQ+ community. She came out publicly in 2012 and has inspired gay athletes ever since.

Caster Semenya

Caster Semenya created conversations about sex and gender in the sports world. Aside from being a two-time gold medalist for running, she also advocates for the inclusion of and education about intersex athletes.

Nicola Adams

She’s the first woman to win a gold medal in boxing, but not without struggle. She often speaks about the discrimination and homophobia she faced while competing, and through these stories has inspired many to follow their dreams despite facing prejudice in the sports world.

Brittney Griner

Six-foot-eight WNBA player Brittney Griner came out publicly in 2013. She’s won three Olympic gold medals in her field. She’s also one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential women.

Raven Saunders

Non-binary Olympian Raven Saunders won a silver medal for the shot put in 2021. They are an outspoken athlete when it comes to advocating for mental health and intersectionality. They famously made an “X” protest gesture at the 2020 Tokyo Games symbolizing: "intersection where all people who are oppressed meet.” 

Dutee Chand

As the first Indian Olympic athlete to come out publicly, Dutee Chand has become iconic in the world of competitive sports. Although she’s never reached the Olympic podium, her courage and determination have inspired others to challenge the status quo.