João Lucas Reis etched his name in tennis history by wishing his boyfriend a happy birthday. This hunky Brazilian shared the heartfelt post on Instagram, becoming the first active male pro tennis player to openly declare his gay identity. Reis is in a relationship with actor and model Gui Sampaio Ricardo, who himself seems to possess athletic prowess.

Unveiling the Inclusive Side of Tennis with João Lucas Reis

Tennis History and Personal Milestone

João Lucas Reis's act of wishing his boyfriend a happy birthday on Instagram was a groundbreaking moment. It shattered the silence surrounding gay relationships within the male tennis community. As the first active pro to do so, he paved the way for others and challenged the long-held taboos. His post not only showed his love but also sparked conversations about acceptance and inclusivity in the sport.This significant event has now become a part of tennis history, and Reis's courage will likely inspire future generations of players. His story serves as a reminder that love knows no boundaries, even in the highly competitive world of tennis.

Dealing with Homophobia in Tennis

The publication Clay highlights the fact that homosexuality has been a major taboo in men's tennis. Brian Vahaly is the only other ATP Top 100 player to publicly come out, and he did so a decade after retiring. In a 2021 interview, Vahaly shared his struggles, stating that he didn't feel safe or included in the sports field. He felt that tennis was a very conservative environment where he had to hide his true self.For Reis, it was a different story. He seems to be encountering a more inclusive landscape, as evidenced by the support he received from other Brazilian tennis pros. His doubles partner, Pedro Boscardin Dias, reacted positively, and the country's current No. 1, Thiago Monteiro, also expressed his admiration. This shows that attitudes are slowly changing within the tennis community.

Reis's Career and Future Prospects

Reis is currently ranked No. 401 in the world and No. 11 in Brazil. He has previously reached as high as No. 259, indicating his potential and talent. Currently, he is competing in the Procopio Cup, a pre-qualifying tournament for the biggest annual tennis event in Rio de Janeiro.With over 8,100 followers on social media, Reis already has a significant following. His story has attracted attention, and it is expected that his fan base will continue to grow. As he continues to pursue his tennis career, he will be a role model for LGBTQ+ athletes and inspire them to be true to themselves.Sign up for the Queerty newsletter to stay updated on the latest stories in LGBTQ+ entertainment, politics, and culture. Don't forget to share!