Tennis Star Greg Slade Inspires After Coming Out
British wheelchair tennis player Greg Slade came out publicly before the Australian Open and received thousands of messages of support. His courage is already inspiring other gay men in tennis to feel comfortable being themselves.
When 23-year-old Greg Slade posted about his sexuality on Instagram before the Australian Open, he worried it might blow up in his face. Instead, thousands of people reached out with love and support.
The British wheelchair tennis star became one of very few openly gay male professional tennis players with his announcement in January 2026. As a Paralympic silver medalist playing at grand slams, he knew his voice could make a difference.
"There are so few of us in professional tennis," Slade told the Press Association. "It's always really difficult to be one of the first because you're going where so few people have been before."
His decision came after watching Swiss player Mika Brunold and Brazilian Joao Lucas Reis da Silva come out in recent months. Seeing the positive responses they received gave Slade the confidence to share his own story.
The reaction exceeded his hopes. While a handful of negative comments trickled in, they were drowned out by thousands of supportive messages from fellow players, fans, and people around the world.
Why This Inspires
Slade's announcement is already creating ripples beyond professional tennis. He received messages from recreational players who said his story inspired them to be open with their own club teammates.
"I've had messages from people saying, 'I play in a club and I don't feel like I can be open with my club team members and your story is inspiring to me,'" Slade shared. "That's why I'm doing it."
He's now working with Pride in Tennis, a British organization supporting LGBTQ+ players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans. His goal is simple: help make coming out a non-issue in tennis.
To other professional players considering coming out, Slade offers gentle encouragement without pressure. "In your own time, if at all," he says. "The grass really is greener on the other side."
He looks forward to the day when a higher-profile male player takes the leap and shows others that love and support await. "What you will find on the other side is love and support and friendship," Slade promises.
As he continues his tennis career, Slade hopes to look back with pride at being part of this important change in professional sports.
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Based on reporting by Sky Sports
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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