All Black No. 1056 Campbell Johnstone has made history by becoming the first All Black to come out as gay.
The prop who played three matches for the All Blacks in 2005 also made over 70 caps for Canterbury and 38 for the Crusaders.
Johnstone, who came out publicly in an interview with Hilary Barry on Seven Sharp, explained how he wished he had come out sooner, saying that the stigma and pressure of “not fitting the mould” held him back from coming out sooner.
“Within myself, I was never comfortable with the whole concept, and my dream was to be an All Black.”
“My view of an All Black was manly, strong, possibly with a wife and kids,” he added.
While Johnstone had come out to friends and family before the interview, he added that it was important to come out publicly, saying, “If I can be the first All Black that comes out as gay and take away the pressure and stigma surrounding the issue it can actually help other people.”
“The public will know that there is one in amongst the All Blacks, and it could be one of the final pieces in the puzzle sports-wise that gives everyone closure,” Johnstone added.
NZ Rugby has since taken to social media to congratulate Johnstone for coming out, saying, “Arohanui @campbelljohnstone.nz All Black #1056 ā your strength and visibility will pave the way for others in sport here in Aotearoa and around the world š¤šš”
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