Dutee Chand Becomes First Indian Sports Star to Reveal Same-Sex Relationship

Dutee Chand, India’s fastest woman, has opened up to the Indian Express for the first time about her girlfriend.

“I’ve found someone who is my soulmate,” she said.

“I believe everyone should have the freedom to be with whoever they decide they want to be with.

“I have always supported the rights of those who want to be in a same-sex relationship. It is an individual person’s choice. Currently, my focus is on the World Championships and the Olympic Games but in the future, I would like to settle down with her.”

The 23 year old, who is training hard for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, would not reveal who the woman was because she didn’t want her to be “the centre of undue attention”, but she did say she is also from her hometown of Chaka Gopalpur in Orissa.

“I believe nobody has the right to judge me as an athlete because of my decision to be with who I want. It is a personal decision, which should be respected. I will continue to strive to win medals for India at international meets.”