Grant Hackett has commented on Ian Thorpe’s recent revelations about his sexuality: “I believe this was the major factor that led Ian to wrap up his career in his mid-twenties.”
Grant’s comments come after Ian Thorpe’s recent revelatory interview with Michael Parkinson in which he revealed that he was gay. Ian said in the interview: “…this is only something that very recently – in the past two weeks – I’ve been comfortable telling the closest people around me exactly that.”
Related: Ian Thorpe praised by fellow celebs after revealing he is gay
Grant’s statement came as part of a recent blog post he wrote on gaming website Sportsbet as part of his role as correspondent for the upcoming Commonwealth Games. Grant was of course Ian’s fellow Olympic teammate on the Australian Swimming team in the 2000 Sydney and 2004 Athens games as well as countless other championship events.
Grant was careful to reiterate his support for his teammate writing, “Before I go further, let me say how supportive I am of Ian’s decision, but based on the media reviews and constant speculation, it wasn’t a surprise to many. It would’ve been unbearable to think of the emotional burden Ian has carried over the years and I applaud him for his courage.”
The three-time Olympic gold medallist drew attention to the constant media scrutiny that Ian has been exposed to since a very young age – rising to international fame at only 15-years-old and pointed out that he was still only 21 when he competed at the 2004 Athens Olympics.
Overall, Hackett’s message was one of positivity and that the sexuality of Ian, or any other Olympian’s or high-profile public figure, is irrelevant.
He wrote: “Now unshackled by the truth I hope he can reflect with great glory and distinction on the outstanding role he’s played in Australian sport, and the accolades he has amassed.”
Related: Grant Hackett moves on with Miss Teen Australia
