Assistant referee Matthew Nelson became the first official in Major League Soccer to publicy come out as gay.
Nelson first came out to his friends and family in June before making the public announcement on Tuesday.
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“Since coming out, I have been able to focus more on performing to the best of my ability as an assistant referee,” wrote Nelson in a post on OutSports.com.
“It has freed my mind from the fear of what others will think. Most importantly, it has allowed me to be myself. The ability to be myself, without feeling the need to put on a facade, is truly freeing.
Nelson has officiated more than 70 MLS matches since making his professional debut in 2012. His next scheduled match is Wednesday’s clash between Atlanta United and Philadelphia Union.
“Being gay is just one part of who I am as a person. I am also a soccer referee, a doctoral student, a friend, a partner, a brother and a son,” he wrote. “I hope that telling my story can help others comes to terms with who they are as well.”