Greg Louganis speaks out on Russia's anti-gay law

Kelly Whiteside | USA TODAY Sports

Olympic champion diver Greg Louganis is now focusing his attention on the Winter Games. Heading into the Sochi Olympics, the four-time gold medalist has joined advocate group Athlete Ally to help challenge Russia's anti-gay legislation.

Louganis is also among the inaugural class to be inducted into the new National Gay & Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame on Friday in Chicago. And he's getting married later this year to partner Johnny Chaillot.

Louganis, 53, took on all three topics in a Q&A with USA TODAY Sports on Thursday.

Q: If you had the chance to sit down with President Vladimir Putin, what would you tell him?

A: "If you had a family member who was gay would you put them in jail? Anti-LGBT laws affect people who are our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters and our neighbors. If you keep this in your heart and lead, then hopefully the community in Russia will be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve."

Q: Sport has helped break down barriers/change perceptions on many issues. You made a brave decision in 1995. Could you imagine what it must be like for a gay athlete in a country where being gay is a crime?

A: "I can't begin to imagine what it must be like for a gay athlete in Russia. It was hard enough to compete closeted representing the United States, a country that is considerably evolved on LGBT rights. It is unfathomable to consider what it's like for the Russian athlete - knowing that if you were to come out you could lose everything you've worked your entire life to achieve and then on top of that to be considered a criminal. It is both heartbreaking and heinous"

Q: Are you planning on going to the Sochi Games?

A: "I have no plans to be there at the moment, but if Athlete Ally has a plan, I will be there to show support and bring a message of love and respect for all people."

Q: Your thoughts on being part of inaugural class of the National Gay & Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame?

A: "It is a tremendous honor, I wish I could be there, but I will just be there in heart and spirit. How wonderful for our youth to have so many positive images of the LGBT community."

Q: How are plans going for the big day?

A: "Thanks, who knew? I never would have thought I would be getting married, so much has changed in this world, at least some parts. I feel blessed to have found my soulmate. Planning a wedding, it ain't diving! Lots to do, but going well."