In an exclusive interview with OutSports, the talented athlete gave insight into his coming-out journey, revealing that he first started to explore his sexuality while attending the University of Kentucky.
“Initially, I was not out at all. I dated girls for the first few years. I had some really great relationships with girls over the years and really loved them,” he explained.
“Obviously, over time, that changed, and I started dating guys later on.”
Fortunately for Gunn, who competed on the university’s swim team, he received no pushback from his teammates, whom he described as “very supportive.”
“I don’t think anything really changed at all. If anything, friends just became better,” he told the news outlet.
“I was really lucky that everyone was so amazing and wanted me to be the happiest version of myself.”
While Gunn’s coming-out journey started in college, the talented athlete didn’t tell his family until years later.
“Unfortunately, I only came out to my family and people back at home much later in life. Although I haven’t had one bad experience since coming out, I guess I just struggled with it for way too long,” he revealed.
Thankfully, Gunn was able to push past his worries and come out to his family at the age of 27.
“It makes me so happy to be surrounded by friends and family and so much love, and I am really grateful for them all,” he gushed toward the end of his interview.
Gunn first made international headlines when he competed in the men’s 100-metre freestyle event at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
The 30-year-old athlete also showcased his talent at the 11th African Games and a handful of FINA World Swimming Championships.
Gunn joins a growing list of professional athletes – including Carl Nassib, Nadia Podoroska and Josh Cavallo – who have come out as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Click here to read about other celebrities, athletes and public figures who have opened up about their sexuality.