From Locker Rooms to Living Rooms: 9 Queer Olympic Athletes and the Ones They Love

The sports world has never been more accepting of LGBTQ + couples than it is today. Although there is still some work in knocking down thick heteronormative walls, it seems fans are more interested in the game rather than the private lives of the players.  Still, since sports is a form of entertainment, people still want a tiny spot of tea and what goes on behind the scenes. Gay sports stars need love too and even though they face struggles within the arena, they must have some support outside it. Let’s take a look at nine athletes and their spouses, past and present, who have inspired change in a career that doesn’t always respect them outside the playing field. 

Megan Rapinoe & Sue Bird

These two make up the perfect sports power couple. If soccer is in Rapinoe’s blood, then Bird has basketball coursing through her veins. There aren’t many same-sex celebrity sports couples, but these athletes have us wanting more. 

An Olympic diving legend and a Hollywood producer? Their meet-cute must have been epic. Their match up has put a spin on what a successful family looks like in the public eye which is another step toward progress. 

Sam Kerr & Kristie Mewis

FIFA has a love story in their timeline, and we love how it’s playing out. These football superstars are not only making goals on the field they are also doing it for relationships. It’s a chemistry made in heaven, an alchemy that’s just as magical as it is real.

Lisa Aitken & Rachel Corsie

Lisa Aitken is a popular squash player from Scotland who doesn’t let injuries slow her down. And   Corsie is a Scottish football juggernaut. This power couple is making strides in LGBTQ+ activism, bringing awareness on the field and its fans. 

Nicola Adams & Ella Baig

A boxer and model met and sparks flew. Although these two have separated recently their story continues to intrigue people who respect what they had but also want a healthy serving of tea.

Jason Collins & Brunson Green

Traditionally, basketball has been a place strictly for straight relationships. There are reality TV shows about the wives. Enter Jason Collins and his husband Brunson Green who literally changed the game. It’s the new reality of pro sports and marriage. 

Gus Kenworthy & Matthew Wilkas

This former thirst couple of the sports world is still intriguing fans. It may be because Kentworthy is so strikingly handsome that people are invested in who he is dating. And since they are still good friends it goes to show that some relationships that end aren’t toxic.  Kenworthy’s athletic charm and Wilkas’ model-actor aesthetic make them a gay internet favorite.

Caster Semenya & Violet Raseboya

A love story a decade in the making and still going strong. With two children, this couple have proven that gay relationships do last and can be as traditional and healthy as much as their straight counterparts. Semenya’s story transcends sport. Their relationship symbolizes strength, resistance, and love under global scrutiny.

Laurel Hubbard & Partner  

Although Laurel Hubbard hasn’t made any announcements to her relationship status we want to celebrate her story. She was the first trans woman to compete in the Olympics and that accomplishment is groundbreaking. We are curious as to her support group which may or may not include a partner. But rest assured if it’s ever announced, we’ll be celebrating them too.  Even with limited public details, Hubbard’s presence as a trans Olympic athlete makes her personal life a symbol of visibility and courage.