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Figure Skater Adam Rippon Reveals He Is Gay

"I want to say something to the dad out there who might be concerned that his son is a figure skater."

25-year-old figure skater Adam Rippon has come out as gay.

The two-time national silver medalist graces the cover of the October issue of Skating magazine, and inside he discusses why it felt like the right time.

"It’s the year 2015. So many more athletes are willing to be open, and it’s part of the culture now to be more open about who you are and what your interests are. Of course people are interested in your sexual orientation. People love rumors. When athletes come out and say that they’re gay, it makes it a little more normal and less of a big deal — especially in the athletic community. You have a lot of respect for your fellow athletes for working hard toward a goal. Their sexual orientation takes a backseat to that.”

Rippon also said he hopes to be a good role model to those who now look up to him.

"When you go out and compete, you want to represent [the organization] to the best of your ability, and you want to represent your true, authentic self," he said.

He continued, "I want to say something to the dad out there who might be concerned that his son is a figure skater. I mean look at me; I’m just a normal son from small-town Pennsylvania. Nothing changed. I’d just like to be a good role model. I’ve been honest with myself the whole time. I worked hard and loved what I did.”

h/t: Towleroad

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