Russia’s Daria Kasatkina said she felt “freer” since coming out as gay last month when her teammates supported the women’s No. 12.
Kasatkina said last month that she was inspired to come out after Russian soccer player Nadya Karpova revealed she is gay in a country where homosexuality is frowned upon.
Russia’s existing “gay propaganda law,” passed in 2013, was used to stop gay parades and arrest gay rights activists.
“I don’t know how the social media filter works, but I just heard very good things,” said Kasatkina, whose friend, Olympic figure skater Natalia Zabiiako, cheered her on at this week’s Silicon Valley Classic in California.
“I’m very happy about it. As I saw, not only was it a good thing for me, but it helped other people as well.
“I feel freer and happier. I think I made the right move. With the situation in the world, all these things that are difficult, if not now, when?”
Former women’s world number one Naomi Osaka, who has spoken out on racial injustice and police brutality, said it was “really amazing” to see Kasatkina taking a stand.
“I think we have to gather to support them because it’s a pretty dangerous situation,” said the four-time Grand Slam winner.
“But I think in all of this, it’s really incredible that she’s coming out and standing up for what she believes in. I always support that.”
American teenager Coco Gauff, who took an active role in the Black Lives Matter movement, said she was “super happy” for Kasatkina.
“I think in tennis, at least with the girls around, we’re all very supportive of each other regardless of background or identity,” Gauff said.
“I don’t think there’s a verdict on that.”