Ian Roberts Says Coming Out Was His Superpower. Is The NRL Finally Ready To Listen?
It’s 2025. So why does it still feel risky to be gay in the NRL?NRL agents say gay players are quietly seeking support. Roberts, who blazed the trail 30 years ago, says the game still has work to do.
For a sport that prides itself on toughness, rugby league still struggles with authenticity when it comes to sexuality. Ian Roberts, who came out publicly in 1995 during his professional career, knows exactly what that silence costs.
His message today is clear: you are safe, you are loved, and you are not alone.
Roberts was responding to a Code Sports survey that revealed several NRL player agents have supported gay players who confided in them privately. One agent said there may be “six or seven” gay men currently playing in the league.
“We have to be there as agents to help them come to terms with it in what is a very macho industry,” one agent told the outlet. Another added that one player was concerned about how teammates would treat him. “That’s where an agent has a huge role to play.”
Roberts: The next out player could be a star
Speaking to News Corp, Roberts praised agents for offering support, but said the revelations weren’t surprising. What would be? A player coming out publicly.
“I really believe that the next male who comes out in a major contact sport will become an absolute superstar,” Roberts said. “It would be wonderful if they came out, but only if they’re comfortable with the decision.”
He also pointed out that women’s codes are ahead when it comes to inclusion. “The women’s sports are all over it. The men’s sports are still lagging,” he said. “There’s still that sense that somehow it’s weak to be gay if you are a man.”
Private pressure, public silence
Roberts recalled being approached by two NRL players in the past 15 years. One stayed anonymous. The other was semi-open. Neither came out.
“They asked me what I thought the best situation was,” he said. “I told them I can’t answer that. All I said was that you need to know you are safe and loved, and once you come out, you can’t go back in.”
‘I wish I was never in the closet’
For Roberts, coming out changed everything. His family already knew. At club events, he brought his partner. “People were waiting for me to come out, but I always thought: why should I have to label this?”
Now, he sees it differently. “I understand why I had to. I wish I was never in the closet. I’m so grateful I was born gay. It has become my superpower.”
Roberts continues to support queer athletes globally, helping them find the strength to step forward when they’re ready.
Will the NRL catch up?
We’re hearing more behind-the-scenes support. Agents are paying attention. Roberts is still speaking. Somewhere, a player might be getting ready to live openly.
The game is watching.
