Japanese volleyball player Rui Takahashi has publicly come out as gay, sharing his personal journey with fans and crediting his younger brother, national team star Ran Takahashi, for helping him come to terms with his identity.
Rui, who plays for Suntory Sunbirds Osaka in Japan’s SV League, made the disclosure in a social media post on Tuesday.
The veteran volleyball player said he spent years struggling with his sexuality and trying to suppress that part of himself.
“Since childhood, I feared confronting a part of myself and struggled, denying who I am. That is the fact that I am gay and one of the sexual minorities,” Rui wrote.
He said his relationship with Ran played an important role in his decision to be open about his identity.
Rui and Ran spent around two seasons as teammates at Suntory Sunbirds, giving the brothers an opportunity to have conversations that eventually helped Rui accept himself.
“Living on the same team as my younger brother for about two years had a big impact on me, and through conversations with Ran, I was able to accept myself,” Rui said.
Ran, one of Japan’s leading men’s volleyball players, returned to Suntory Sunbirds for the 2024-25 season after playing professionally in Italy.
Rui also expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, coaches, staff and supporters for helping him through what he described as a difficult period.
“By expressing my feelings in words, I was able to organize my thoughts and realized that ‘it’s okay to be myself as I am,’” he said.
“The reason I could confront myself was due to the presence of Ran, as well as my family, teammates, staff, and everyone who supported me. I am truly grateful for the support during various moments.”
Rui said he was encouraged by the response following his announcement and hoped to continue his career while being open about who he is.
“Although the news was sudden, I am thankful for the support from many people. I hope to continue growing through volleyball as Takahashi Rui in the future,” he said.
Rui’s disclosure comes as he continues his career in Japan’s SV League. (Adrian Co)
