American tennis player James Blake joins Mardy Fish and Andy Roddick as an ambassador to the anti-homophobia group Athlete Ally.
Says Blake:
“I am proud to be affiliated with Athlete Ally because they do exceptional work that can actually make a difference in the sports world and beyond. Inclusion doesn't have to be a political issue, but more a human issue. As a mixed background person, I have been told I could be hated by both sides. I have always tried to look at it the opposite way as a positive that I could be accepted and included. I am extremely lucky and feel that everyone should have the feeling of acceptance.”
Said Founder and Executive Director of Athlete Ally Hudson Taylor: "We are seeing athletes across all sports take a stand and get their friends and teammates involved because when you love the game you play, you respect it. Joining our movement is a way for true sportsmen to demonstrate their commitment to fair play. James Blake has made the United States proud over the years both on the court and off of it and we are confident that his allyship will, in turn, embolden more allies to speak out as well."
