Fabien Le Floc’h, Media365: published on Monday December 1, 2025 at 10:32 p.m.
In a powerful move that’s resonating across the tennis world, 21-year-old Swiss player Mika Brunold, currently ranked 310th on the ATP tour, has bravely come out as gay. Brunold shared his personal journey in a heartfelt Instagram post this past weekend, marking a notable moment for visibility in professional tennis.
While Brunold may not be a household name just yet, his brave decision to share his truth at such an early stage of his career is drawing widespread admiration.In a sport where openness about personal lives has historically been a challenge, Brunold is joining a growing number of athletes who are dismantling invisible barriers and fostering a more inclusive environment.
“we Don’t Talk About It Enough”
Brunold articulated his thoughts on the matter in his extensive Instagram message, stating, I thought a lot about how to talk about this and although it wasn’t always easy, it was never a question for me of hiding it or pretending to be someone else. That’s why I think now is the time to open up and tell you that I’m gay.
His proclamation has already garnered support from tennis luminaries, including fellow Swiss star Stan Wawrinka, former Belgian pro Kim Clijsters, and American player Sloane Stephens, all of whom have congratulated brunold on his courage.
Anticipating potential backlash, Brunold elaborated on the personal significance of his announcement. He explained, Being gay dose not onyl mean loving a person of the same sex, it also means confronting realities that most people will never have to think about: the fear of not being accepted, the pressure of silence, the feeling of being different.
He further emphasized the importance of open dialog,adding,I share this with you to take a personal step forward,but also because I think we don’t talk about it enough in sport.I think in an ideal world we wouldn’t even have to come out.
Targeted by Homophobic Abuse
Brunold’s announcement makes him the second active male professional tennis player to come out, following the lead of Brazil’s Joao Lucas reis Da Silva, who came out a year prior. While Reis Da Silva is currently the second-highest-ranked brazilian player, Brunold’s journey is just beginning. Earlier this season, Brunold bravely spoke out about experiencing homophobic insults after qualifying for the main draw of a Challenger tournament in Quimper, Brittany, highlighting the very real challenges athletes can face.
