Athletes Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird are the first openly gay couple to appear on the cover of ESPN's Body Issue, now in its 10th year. Rapinoe plays professional soccer for the Seattle Reign and Bird is a professional basketball player for the Seattle Storm.
“I think neither of us really wants to just do things and be like, ‘We’re the gay couple,'” Rapinoe told ESPN’s Jemele Hill in an interview for the Body Issue.“But to have this really unique vehicle to actually do that, to celebrate who we are in our sport, but also the fact that we’ll be the first gay couple, is pretty special. It’s pretty amazing to think about, especially in the times we’re in. Just think of how far we’ve come, but also the current climate and defiance in the face of that. Not only are we female athletes, but we’re dating as well. It’s kind of badass.
“I think it’s important to do these things first. It’s important for people to come out. Visibility is important. It’s important for there to be a first one on the cover (of the Body Issue), or whatever. Just in terms of the culture and society, someone has to do it.” [SeattleTimes]