(CNN) American golfer Tadd Fujikawa has announced he is gay.

In a lengthy, heartfelt Instagram post on World Suicide Prevention Day, Fujikawa said he hoped to be an "inspiration" for the LGBTQ community and help make a "difference in someone's life."

The 27-year-old is believed to be the first openly gay male professional golfer.

"So ... I'm gay," he wrote. "Many of you may have already known that. I don't expect everyone to understand or accept me.

"But please be gracious enough to not push your beliefs on me or anyone in the LGBTQ community. My hope is this post will inspire each and every one of you to be more empathetic and loving towards one another.