Volleyball player Reon Arao comes out after Rui inspires him
Japanese volleyball player Reon Arao has opened up about his sexuality, explaining how Rui Takahashi’s coming out gave him courage to share his story.
Japanese volleyball player Reon Arao has opened up about his sexuality, crediting fellow player Rui Takahashi with giving him the courage to speak publicly. The 25-year-old explained that “Q” or questioning is the description within LGBTQ+ that feels closest to his experience.
Reon plays for Voreas Hokkaido in Japan’s professional SV.League. His position is libero, a defensive role specialising in receiving serves and keeping the ball in play.
In his public statement, Reon described growing up without wanting to place strict boundaries around his gender identity or the gender of people he is attracted to. He explained that his feelings have sometimes been difficult to understand, while the idea of coming out had felt like a significant barrier.
Seeing Rui speak openly helped him take that step himself. Reon thanked his team’s staff, family and friends for supporting him and treating him as an individual.
He also expressed hope that sharing his experience could encourage somebody else, just as Rui had encouraged him. Alongside that personal step, he reaffirmed his commitment to the sport he loves and to continuing his career as a professional volleyball player.
