Campbell Johnstone hopes his admission will help reduce stigma around sexuality

Former New Zealand rugby player Campbell Johnstone has become the first All Black to come out as gay.

He hopes his public announcement will help “take away the pressure and stigma” for those struggling with their sexuality.

Johnstone says he told his friends and family “a long time ago” but kept his true self hidden from the public during his playing career.

He says he lived a “double life” because his sexuality did not fit with the image of an All Black player.

His vision of a player was someone who was “manly, strong … possibly had a wife, kids” – even blaming his sexuality when he performed poorly during a game.

The former prop played three Tests in 2005 – with his last match against the British and Irish Lions.

Between 2002 and 2012, he made 38 appearances for the Crusaders, 72 for Canterbury and 105 for the French side Biarritz.

In the interview, Johnstone says it’s “a little bit sad that we are actually having to do this”, adding he can’t believe how far and wide the news has spread. #trending #featured