Collin Martin announces that he is gay before the night of pride

Minnesota midfielder, Collin Martin, came out homosexual on social media in the hours leading up to the team's annual annual evening on Friday

. Martin shared his ad in a post on Twitter. He explained that he has been out to his family, friends and teammates for years but now has felt safe to go out publicly. With his position, Martin becomes the only active athlete in MLS and all major league men's sports in the United States

"Today, I am proud that my entire team and the management of Minnesota United know that I am gay, "Martin said in the post. "I only received the kindness and acceptance of everyone in Major League Soccer and this made the decision to go out publicly easier."

After being signed by DC United in 2013, Martin played four seasons for his home team. to be traded to Minnesota. In 18 appearances, he scored 10 goals and collected two assists for the Loons

. Only one other player came out playing actively in MLS – Robbie Rogers, a defenseman released in 2013, won the MLS Cup with the Galaxy in 2014 and retired in 2017.

While most MLS teams have adopted a pride night as a main event each June, the league is still struggling with homophobia with fans and players. Just a month ago, the Galaxy was forced to issue a statement warning fans after homophobic slurs were chanted during Pride Night.

The announcement of Martin was however supported by his teammates and the Minnesota sports community. will wear sweaters with rainbow numbers to celebrate the night of pride.