Already have an account?
Get back to the

Gus Kenworthy on Life After Coming Out: “I Was Blown Away by the Support”

Gus Kenworthy
Gus Kenworthy

Miley Cyrus and figure skater Gracie Gold are just two of the women once romantically linked to Gus Kenworthy, but he didn’t object to the rumors. “I used to hook up with girls to be cool with the guys,” the Olympic freeskier admits in an exclusive interview for the new issue of Us Weekly. “There were times I would cry afterward.”

Now the 24-year-old is finally done pretending: In October, he revealed that he’s gay. “I was at the point where I couldn’t continue to lie,” says Kenworthy, who came to terms with his feelings at age 16.

PHOTOS: Gay Celebrities' Coming Out Stories

“I was worried that I’d be known as ‘the gay skier’ … and everything else about me would be overlooked,” he explains. “I have a big fan base of young girls, and I didn’t want to disappoint them.”

Luckily, the Colorado native’s family, friends, and fans showed him nothing but encouragement.

“I was blown away by the support, and it’s insane how many people have come out to me — even closeted athletes,” he says. “I feel like I’m helping battle gay stereotypes, because I compete in a rugged action sport.”

PHOTOS: Sochi Winter Olympics 2014's Hottest Athletes

Kenworthy, who is set to hit the slopes in January’s X Games, also revealed that he’s dating.

“I am seeing someone, but it’s pretty new,” he tells Us. “I feel like as soon as you publicly talk about a relationship, there’s so much pressure put on it. We’re just getting to know each other.”

As for the pro skier’s celebrity crushes? “I don’t have a type, but I’m generally drawn to masculine guys, like Tom Hardy. Oh, and Matt Bomer!”

Got a Tip form close button
Got a tip for US?
We're All Ears for Celebrity Buzz!