“When I was competing in local athletics a number of years ago, some other athletes called me ‘fag’ or ‘queer,” Tom Bosworth said. Photo:

“When I was competing in local athletics a number of years ago, some other athletes called me ‘fag’ or ‘queer,” Tom Bosworth said. Photo:

Tom Bosworth, a race walker who is considered one of Great Britain’s great hopes for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, revealed publicly that he is gay and has been in a loving relationship for the past four years.

Bosworth says this news won’t shock anyone who knows him, but he hopes his announcement will help more athletes feel comfortable enough to reveal their sexuality. Bosworth, 25, revealed that when he was younger there had been some negative feedback.

“When I was competing in local athletics a number of years ago, some other athletes called me ‘fag’ or ‘queer,” Bosworth said. “When I was at school, when those feelings were still developing, I had my head smashed through a window by a group of boys.”

He says some of his teammates have been very intrigued, but they eventually realize he’s just like everyone else. “I know there will always be people who have a problem with my sexuality, but one person’s opinion doesn’t affect me now, as I have support from my parents and partner.”

So thankful for the support and wonderful messages from today! Family and Friends have made this possible! Lucky! Soon there will be no story, just happiness! #ThankYou. @attitudemag @bbcsport @gaytimesmag A photo posted by Tom Bosworth ?? (@tombosworth) on Oct 13, 2015 at 4:31am PDT

Watch Tom discuss his private life with BBC below.