Adam Rippon made history this weekend, becoming the first openly gay man from the U.S. to medal at the Winter Olympics. And the founder of Outsports.com says the bronze medal-winner may have opened the door for other LGBT youth to find a place in the world of sports. “The fact that Adam backed it up with a great performance on Sunday night and America fell in love, that’s the message that kid is receiving: ‘I can be Adam, and I can still be loved by America, too,’” Cyd Zeigler said. “It’s not just the kid watching Adam be his authentic self. It’s then watching his classmates and other people on social media totally embrace it.” Rippon and fellow out Team USA member Gus Kenworthy, a freestyle skier who races this weekend, have been widely applauded at the Winter Games. But they also sparked controversy with a selfie captioned “Eat your heart out, Pence.” U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, who led the U.S. delegation at the Olympics’ Opening Ceremony, has been criticized for his support of “religious freedom” laws and reported advocacy of “conversion therapy.” The VP tried to ease any tension, tweeting at Rippon, “I want you to know we are FOR YOU. Don’t let fake news distract you.” For full interview [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/adam-rippon-and-gus-kenworthy-break-the-rainbow-ceiling-at-the-winter-olympics).

Share:
More In Sports
Between Bells: January 3, 2018
Between Bells: A preview of Sunday's Golden Globes, the first major awards ceremony of the #metoo era. Plus, Rihanna and Kylie Jenner square off in a battle of the celebrity beauty brands. We're joined by Health, Racked, Mashable, TheGrio, CinemaBlend and more!
Train Like a Warrior in 2018
Meagan Martin, professional rock climber and American Ninja Warrior finalist, discusses her tips for staying healthy in the new year. She notes the importance of staying hydrated and having healthy meal replacements like snack bars to keep you full throughout the day.
Between Bells: January 2, 2018
Between Bells: Californians lining up for recreational marijuana, Hollywood's A-List women say 'Time's Up' on workplace harassment, and can Dems get a DACA deal? We're joined by Fast Company, Cannabis Culture, Bossip.com, TechnoBuffalo, Conservative Review and more.
Olympic Hopeful Wants to Help Young Women Fund Their Big Dreams
While you were out partying this past weekend, World Cup Ski Jumper Abby Ringquist was competing in the US Olympic team trials for Nordic Ski Jumping. After placing second in the competition, she joins Cheddar to tell us how she's helping other young women fund their big dreams.
#GETSPEEDO Fit for the New Year
John Graham, Speedo USA President, and Team Speedo USA swimmers Cullen Jones and Elizabeth Beisel talk the #GetSpeedoFit campaign and why water sports are better for your health.
Electron Wheel's Long Ride to CES
Max Lippe and James Parker, cyclist and spokesperson for Electron Wheel discuss the product that turns every bicycle into an electric one.
Lakers Honor Kobe Bryant In Rare Way
After playing with the Los Angeles Lakers for 20 years, basketball superstar Kobe Bryant retired in 2016. This week, the Lakers honored the all-star by retiring not one, but two jersey numbers.
Under Armour Dropping Curry 4 by Drone
Under Armour delivered autographed Curry 4 sneakers by drone to fans over the weekend. StockX CEO Josh Luber explains how this promotion is resonating with fans, and how the sneaker retailer is performing.
The Milwaukee Bucks' New Digs
Peter Feigin, President of the Milwaukee Bucks, joins Cheddar to discuss the new arena fans and players have to look forward to in 2018. The new building will cost around $524 million and most of that cost is going towards customizing the fan's experience.
Load More