The world No. 18 shared his support for diversity and inclusion in professional athletics. (AP Photo)

Tennis fans who identify as LGBT and allies must be heartened to see the recent on-court display put on by Roberto Bautista Agut. The 28-year-old, ranked No. 18, shared this Instagram post:

Cordones arcoiris en el Día contra la homofobia en el deporte. #stophomophobia #rainbow #respect #diversidad #respeto #deporte #tenis #felizdomingo ????️‍???? A post shared by Roberto Bautista Agut (@robertobautistaagut) on Feb 19, 2017 at 2:46am PST

Bautista Agut took a stand a few weeks ago on the International Day Against Homophobia in Sport, rocking multi-colored laces in appreciation of his LGBT fans and, more than likely, LGBT friends or family members.

Gracias por mostrar tu compromiso con la igualdad LGTB Roberto @BautistaAgut y ponerte los cordones arcoiris por el 19F pic.twitter.com/NozS9aFBCZ — Federación Est. LGTB (@FELGTB) February 18, 2017

The Spaniard's words in the caption (above and below) loosely translate to "rainbow cords today to fight homophobia in sport." It's true that he among all ATP players is a so-called light in the darkness as a proponent of LGBT rights is concerned:

Roberto Bautista Agut is a very rare vocal pro tennis players about LGBT rights/inclusivity. Downplayed it when we spoke, but it stands out. pic.twitter.com/54jEAQ1U1u — Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) March 28, 2017

Bautista Agut remains not only an ally of those who are maligned, but one who speaks via a simple, meaningful fashion choice as much as he does with words. Maybe more.

Score one for Mizuno brand, sure—but more importantly, score one for equality.

Follow Jon on Twitter @jonscott9.