Ian Thorpe reveals he is gay in an interview with Michael Parkinson

Ian Thorpe with his autobiography ‘This is me’

Ian Thorpe has revealed that he is gay in an interview with Michael Parkinson on Channel 10. The program will be broadcast on Sunday night.

Thorpe had frequently denied being gay in the past. In July 2011, Mr Thorpe told The Sunday Times: "I don't think anybody has a right to write about [my private life], but I don't care enough about it to be bothered. If you try and fight it, you're damned; if you don't, you're damned."

The Australian had also claimed that he was heterosexual in his autobiography ‘This is me’.

The 5-time Olympic gold medallist came out of rehab earlier this year after suffering depression. He was prone to having suicidal thoughts and drinking too much in the past.

Olympic swimmer Stephanie Rice came out in support of Ian’s decision.

I'm sure it must have been incredibly hard for @IanThorpe to come out, but I hope this bring him peace and that everyone respects his choice

— Stephanie Rice (@ItsStephRice) July 12, 2014

Thorpie is and will always be a superstar in my eyes!!! @IanThorpe

— Stephanie Rice (@ItsStephRice) July 12, 2014

Thorpe known as “Thorpedo” due to his expertise in the swimming pool broke 22 World records during the course of his career. At the 2000 Sydney Olympics, he won three gold and two silver medals. At the 2004 Olympic games, he won two gold, a silver and a bronze.

He was successful at the Commonwealth Games as well, winning 10 gold medals.

He was spotted at the Wimbledon Championships this year.

Ian Thorpe and Michael Parkinson at the Championships in Wimbledon

A teaser of the interview: