Rugby League's Keegan Hirst was the first player in the sport to come out as gay, and referee Nigel Owens chimed in with a message of support for him today.

Hirst made the announcement in an interview with The Sunday Mirror before his match against the Dewsbury Rams on Sunday, and while he was worried about the reaction, he said that there were nothing but well-wishers across the fans and the players, adding that "social media's gone mad. It's really overwhelming and quite humbling". 

One of those adding his voice to the chorus of praise was Nigel Owens, who himself has faced similar difficulties throughout his career, and he sent his support to Hirst today.

Only when your happy in life can you be the best at what you do. @KeeganHirst you will go from strength to strength now. Be proud

— Nigel Owens (@Nigelrefowens) August 17, 2015

Speaking to the BBC, Hirst acknowledged that it was a long process and that he only fully came to the realisation of his identity and sexuality after his marriage broke down, adding "I was convinced it would go away. I just thought it was a phase - it was inconceivable for me to think that I could be gay".

Nigel Wood, the chief executive of the Rugby Football League, said that he was proud that rugby league was a sport that was open to all, and commented that "it's hardly an issue worthy of comment because why shouldn't a player come out and say that they're gay?". 

Via BBC