Paris Olympics 2024: LGBTQ representation shines with new milestone in sports inclusivity

The Paris 2024 Olympics are set to be a landmark event for LGBTQ representation in sports. With a record number of openly LGBTQ athletes to compete, the Games highlight the growing visibility and acceptance of diverse identities in the athletic world.


At least 193 LGBTQ athletes are anticipated, surpassing the previous record of 186 set at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. This includes a diverse group of competitors from various sports, showcasing the increasing inclusivity across the Olympic platform. These athletes not only bring their competitive spirit to the Games but also play a crucial role in advancing LGBTQ visibility and acceptance in sports. Their participation reflects a broader trend toward inclusivity, challenging stereotypes and inspiring future generations of athletes.

Paris 2024 Olympics: Notable LGBTQ athletes to watch

Tom Daley
Renowned English diver Tom Daley is widely recognized for knitting while waiting for his turn or watching his teammates. He publicly came out on his YouTube channel in 2013 and has been in a relationship with American screenwriter, director, and producer Dustin Lance Black. The couple got engaged in October 2015 and married in May 2017. They have two sons born via surrogacy in 2018 and 2023. At the Paris Olympics, the 30-year-old Daley won a silver medal in the 10m platform synchronised diving event with Noah Williams.



Sha’Carri Richardson
U.S. sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, known for her vibrant hair and striking style, announced her relationship with a girlfriend in 2021 and has been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQIA community. At the Paris Olympics, the bisexual athlete made her debut and has qualified for the 100m semi-finals.



Quinn
Canadian soccer player Quinn, formerly known as Rebecca Quinn, is a midfielder who came out as non-binary and transgender in 2020. Quinn made history in 2023 as the first openly non-binary and transgender footballer to compete in the FIFA World Cup and won a gold medal with the Canadian team at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. At the Paris Games, Quinn is set to compete in the quarterfinals against Germany.



Nikki HiltzAmerican middle-distance runner Nikki Hiltz, who identifies as transgender and non-binary, has been involved in LGBTQ advocacy, including organising a Virtual Pride 5k to support the Trevor Project. Hiltz, who has been in a relationship with fellow athlete Emma Gee since 2021, is preparing to compete in the 1500m race at the Paris Olympics.



Portia Woodman-Wickliffe
New Zealand rugby union player Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is known for her dynamic presence on the field. She has been with her rugby teammate and now-wife Renee Wickliffe since 2013, marrying in 2022. The couple adopted the surname Woodman-Wickliffe. At the Paris Olympics, Portia was part of the Rugby Sevens team that won the gold medal, defeating Canada 19-12 in the final.





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