Newly out legendary swimmer Ian Thorpe carries Commonwealth flag at opening ceremony
Newly out swimming legend Ian Thorpe was featured in this evening’s Commonwealth Games opening ceremony in Glasgow.
Australian swimmer Thorpe, who came out last weekend, was one of six global representatives carrying the ceremonial flag.
Thorpe, a five-time Olympic gold medallist, revealed last weekend in an interview with Michael Parkinson that despite previous denials, he is gay.
During his career, Thorpe won nine Olympic medals – five gold, three silver, one bronze – in addition to 11 World Championship titles, and 10 Commonwealth Games gold medals.
The Commonwealth Games has been subject to controversy already as human rights campaigners have called on Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond to speak out against countries with anti-gay laws.
During his opening address this evening, Mr Salmond did not mention LGBT rights.
Homosexuality is currently punishable with prison sentences in 42 out of 54 Commonwealth nations.
The Speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg have both made calls to stand up for LGBT equality during the games.
