Russian tennis star Daria Kasatkina comes out as gay

'Living in peace with yourself is the only thing that matters, f*** everyone else'

Russia's number one women’s tennis player Daria Kasatkina has announced that she is gay. Speaking to Russian blogger Vitya Kravchenko, the world number 12 revealed that she is in a relationship with a woman and that 'living in the closet' was impossible for her. Kasatkina then posted pictures on Instagram of her girlfriend, figure skater Natalia Zabiiako. The 25-year-old stated that she was inspired to come out by Russian footballer Nadya Karpov. "Not only did Nadya help herself by coming out and get this burden off her chest, she has also helped others," Kasatkina said. "Living in peace with yourself is the only thing that matters, f*** everyone else," she added. "I believe it is important that influential people from sports, or any other sphere really speak about it. "It is important for young people who have a hard time with society and need support." https://twitter.com/k_sonin/status/1549080000623775745

LGBTQ+ rights in Russia are restricted

In 2013, Russia's 'gay-propaganda' law was passed, which prevents gay pride marches and sees gay rights activists detained. It is thought that the country is also looking to broaden this law to encompass a complete ban on the 'promotion' of LGBTQ+ relationships. "So many subjects are taboo in Russia," Kasatkina said. "This notion of someone wanting to be gay or becoming [gay] is ridiculous. I think there is nothing easier in this world than being straight." She continued: "Seriously, if there is a choice, no one would choose being gay. Why make your life harder, especially in Russia? What’s the point?" https://twitter.com/TheTennisLetter/status/1549094094449741825 In the interview, Kasatkina also called for an end to fighting in Ukraine. "For the war to end," she said when asked what she wants most in life, describing the conflict as a "complete nightmare." Related links:

• FIFA-ranked referee Igor Benevenuto becomes first to come out as gay
• Double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes flooded with support after announcing she is gay
• Scottish referee Craig Napier comes out as gay and wants ‘to see the climate change’