America’s 5 Big Sports All Have Out Players

In a historic first, all America’s five biggest sports: pro baseball, basketball, football, hockey and soccer, all have active, out gay players.

Cyd Zeigler his is the first time there will be an athlete from North America playing in a professional league in one of the big five men’s American sports: baseball, basketball, football, hockey and soccer. Though one of them — Derrick Gordon — is playing overseas. Four athletes from the United States join Canadian Prokop in breaking down barriers for gay and bisexual athletes in big-time sports.

The simultaneous participation of these men in their respective sports sends a powerful message about just how far sports have come, as each of them reports widespread acceptance.

Here are the five athletes competing in the big five American sports, with one playing overseas in Europe.

Carl Nassib, football

Nassib came out publicly during Pride Month and just restructured his contract with the Las Vegas Raiders that likely means he’ll be with the team through next season.

Collin Martin, soccer

Martin played for MLS’ Minnesota United F.C. when he came out publicly in 2019. Now he takes the pitch for the San Diego Loyal.

Luke Prokop, hockey

Prokop called the front office of the Nashville Predators to let them know he’s gay, then with their support he came out to the world. He’s under contract with the Predators and currently plays with the Calgary Hitmen.

Derrick Gordon, basketball

Gordon first played professionally for Apollon Limassol in Cyprus. For the 2021 season he’ll suit up for for Römerstrom Gladiators Trier in Germany, near the border with Luxembourg.

Bryan Ruby, baseball

Ruby has played professional baseball in the United States and other countries, coming out publicly this season with the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes in Oregon.