Leigh Ryswyk Becomes First Openly Gay AFL Player

On March 25, 2026, Leigh Ryswyk publicly came out as gay during an interview on the LGBTQ+ radio program GayFL, making him the first current or former male player in the Australian Football League (AFL) to do so. Ryswyk, who played one match for the Brisbane Lions in 2005 before a successful career in the South Australian National Football League (SANFL), had been open about his sexuality with close friends and family for five years prior to this announcement.

Leigh Ryswyk becomes first openly gay AFL player, marking a culturalFormer Brisbane Lion, SANFL stalwart reveals he is gayGay former AFL player Leigh Ryswyk comes out, first ever to do soEx-Lion and SANFL champion Leigh Ryswyk becomes first AFL player to come out as gay

Ryswyk, originally from Victoria, joined the Brisbane Lions as a rookie in 2004 but suffered a quad injury during his debut match against Fremantle, leading to his delisting at the end of the season. He went on to have a notable career with North Adelaide, playing 226 games and earning a place in the Queensland Football Hall of Fame. His coming out marks a significant moment in a sport that has historically lacked openly gay male players.

Leigh Ryswyk becomes first openly gay AFL player, marking a cultural

In his interview, Ryswyk shared the emotional experience of coming out to his parents. He described his mother's tears and her affirmation of love, as well as his father's supportive response, stating, "I love you, it doesn’t matter, as long as you’re happy, I’m happy for you." Ryswyk emphasized the importance of family support in his journey, noting that sharing his story could help others feel less alone.

Former Brisbane Lion, SANFL stalwart reveals he is gay

The announcement has garnered widespread support from the AFL community. AFL Chief Executive Andrew Dillon praised Ryswyk for his bravery and expressed hope that his openness would encourage others to feel comfortable in their identities. Brisbane Lions CEO Sam Graham echoed this sentiment, stating, "We want our game to be an inclusive environment for everyone." North Adelaide also expressed pride in Ryswyk's journey, highlighting their commitment to fostering an inclusive atmosphere.

Former Brisbane Lion, SANFL stalwart reveals he is gay

Despite the positive responses, Ryswyk acknowledged that external pressures from fans and media could still deter players from coming out. He called for continued education and a shift in the culture surrounding Australian football to ensure that all players feel safe and accepted. Ryswyk's story arrives amid ongoing discussions about inclusivity in sports, particularly following the coming out of former West Coast Eagles player Mitch Brown as bisexual in 2025.

Leigh Ryswyk becomes first openly gay AFL player, marking a cultural

Ryswyk's announcement is seen as a pivotal cultural moment for Australian football, signaling a gradual shift towards greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ athletes in a traditionally conservative sport. His visibility is expected to inspire future generations of athletes to embrace their identities openly, contributing to a more inclusive environment in Australian sports.

Leigh Ryswyk becomes first openly gay AFL player, marking a cultural

• “To people who know me, my closest friends, this is not new; I've been out for five years now.” — Leigh Ryswyk

Former Brisbane Lion, SANFL stalwart reveals he is gay

• “I think the AFL, and the community, will wrap their arms around that player…” — Leigh Ryswyk

Gay former AFL player Leigh Ryswyk comes out, first ever to do so

• “We want our game to be an inclusive environment for everyone, including players, staff, members and fans.” — Sam Graham, Brisbane Lions CEO

The Independent

• “Leigh sharing his story is a positive step, and we're proud to see him feel comfortable doing so,” — Andrew Dillon, AFL Chief Executive

Former Brisbane Lion, SANFL stalwart reveals he is gay

Ryswyk's journey reflects both personal courage and the evolving landscape of inclusivity in Australian sports, marking a significant step forward for representation within the AFL.

Leigh Ryswyk becomes first openly gay AFL player, marking a cultural