Russian lawmakers are currently preparing changes to the law that could prohibit the portrayal of sexual minorities in a positive or neutral light.
According to Kasatkina, 25, who is ranked 12th in the women’s world list, living in the closet was impossible for a long time, so she decided to tell about her sexual orientation.
– So many things are taboo in Russia. The idea that someone would want to be gay or become gay is ridiculous. Really, why would anyone be gay in Russia if they could decide for themselves? Why make his life more difficult, especially in Russia?, Kasatkina, who lives abroad, rumbled.
The Russian star also posted a picture of his girlfriend on Instagram Natalia Zabijakon with. Estonian-Russian Zabijako won Olympic silver in the figure skating team competition in the Russian Olympic athletes’ team in Pyeongchang 2018.
Athletes and activists praise
A footballer who came out of the closet last month Nadja Karpova was the first openly homosexual Russian national team athlete.
– When I heard the news about Kasatkina, I couldn’t believe it. I was so happy. I was jumping around my apartment like crazy, Karpova told The Guardian.
– It is important that young people have similar people to admire. They can see that there is nothing wrong with them.
Director of the Russian LGBT Network Igor Kotsetkov said Kasatkina’s statement was historic.
– This is the first time that an undisputed sports star of Kasatkina’s caliber comes out of the closet. Vladimir Putin In Russia, sport is always political.
Russia is planning new restrictions
In Russia, the “gay propaganda” law that entered into force in 2013 has been used, for example, to limit pride parades and justify arrests of activists. Russian lawmakers are currently preparing to expand the law so that it could prohibit the portrayal of sexual minorities in a positive or neutral light.
Kasatkina fears that she will never be able to hold Zabijako’s hand in her homeland.
– Living in a closet is impossible. It is too difficult and useless. Living at peace with yourself is the only thing that matters. Forget everything else.