Tom Daley hits back at Russian state TV for homophobic attacks

Tom Daley has hit back at a Russian state TV channel after being targeted in homophobic attacks during the Tokyo Olympic Games.

Channel Rossiya 1 aired a number of offensive slurs against Mr Daley during their coverage of the Games.

During several talk shows on the channel, they spoke negatively about LBGT athletes, using words such as “abomination” and “perversion”.

In response to the homophobic remarks, Mr Daley, said: “I had no idea. When we’re at the Olympics, we’re in a bubble and we don’t really see anything.

"History shows that everything that society is has been dictated from the straight, white, male experience.

"If we could come together and use different points of view, the world would be a better place.”

The 27-year-old added that “there’s still a lot further to go”.

“There are 10 countries competing at these Olympics where being LGBT is punishable by death,” he said.

"I feel extremely lucky to be representing Team GB, to be able to stand on the diving board as myself, with a husband and a son, and not have to worry about any ramifications.

“There are lots of people who grow up around the world in less fortunate situations.”

He added that he hopes that seeing LGBTQ+ sportspeople will help people to feel like they are “less alone, like they are valued, like they can achieve something”.

"When I was growing up, I always knew I was different. I always heard people saying bad things,” he said.

"You never feel as if you can say anything. You swallow yourself up, and you feel like you’re never going to be anyone.

“It takes a lot to come out and speak openly. It can be quite daunting and scary for people, especially in sports where the fanbases might not be as accepting.

"I didn’t realise the impact it would have on people around the world to live as myself. I feel extremely proud of that.”

An International Olympic Committee (IOC) spokesman told the BBC they were contacting the Russian broadcaster to share their concerns.

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