Over 54 Out LGBTQ Players Confirmed for 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup

The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, hosted across England in eight cities, features a record 16 teams and prominently includes at least 54 publicly out LGBTQ+ players, representing over 10% of the total athletes, highlighting the sport's inclusive culture. England’s team, the Red Roses, are favorites and include nine openly LGBTQ+ players, such as couples Holly Aitchison and Hannah Botterman, and Sarah Bern with Mackenzie Carson, who actively advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility and body positivity. This level of representation in women's rugby contrasts starkly with men’s rugby, where no players have come out publicly at major tournaments. The tournament is expected to break attendance and viewership records, marking a significant milestone for women’s rugby and LGBTQ+ representation in sports. Separately, Outsports reports on a history of publicly out gay and bisexual college football players, showcasing growing acceptance in traditionally male-dominated sports, while players and leagues continue to confront challenges around inclusivity and respect. Together, these developments underscore the ongoing evolution and visibility of LGBTQ+ athletes across diverse sporting arenas.