Rio Ferdinand lends support as Luke Prokop becomes first NHL player to come out as gay - The Mirror

Nashville Predators prospect Luke Prokop became the first active NHL player to come out as gay in a statement released on social media on Monday

Rio Ferdinand was among the big names to offer his support as Nashville Predators star Luke Prokop became the first NHL player to come out as gay.

Predators prospect Prokop - who is yet to play in the sport's biggest league - was drafted in the third round by the Nashville franchise in 2020.

The 19-year-old revealed his sexuality in a statement posted on social media to widespread acclaim both within and outside of ice hockey.

"While the past year and a half has been crazy, it has also given me the chance to find my true self," he said. "I am no longer scared to hide who I am.

"Today I am proud to publicly tell everyone that I am gay.

"It has been quite the journey to get to this point in my life, but I could not be happier with my decision to come out.

"From a young age I have dreamed of being an NHL player and I believe that living my authentic life will allow me to bring my whole self to the rink and improve my chances of fulfilling my dreams.

"I hope that in sharing who I am I can help other people see that gay people are welcome in the hockey community, as we work to make sure that hockey truly is for everyone.

"I may be new to the community but I am eager to learn about the strong and resilient people who came before me and paved the way so I could be comfortable today. This is just the beginning of my journey and I am excited to see where it takes me, both in hockey and life."

Former Manchester United and England defender Ferdinand shared the news on his Twitter feed, posting: "Good to see people are gradually feeling more comfortable to come out publicly."

Predators chief Sean Henry expressed his pride in Prokop and said the organisation would "support him unequivocally in the days, weeks, and years to come".

General manager David Poile added: "We understand his ability to be out comfortably will help him achieve his goals on and off the ice.

"We are committed to ensuring nothing stands in the way of his ability. His courage is an inspiration to us, and to the LGBTQ community in Nashville."

Prokop follows Carl Nassib who became the first active NFL player to come out as gay in June.

Former Leeds and USA international footballer Robbie Rogers was the first openly gay man to play in one of American's big five sports leagues when he came out in February 2013.