What prompted Kelly Holmes to finally open up about the secret she kept hidden for decades?

Kelly Holmes, the British double Olympic gold medallist, finally opened up about being gay after decades of keeping it secret largely because she felt she could no longer live a lie and wanted to be free to be her authentic self. She has spoken about how the fear of public reaction, particularly given the era in which she grew up and competed, kept her silent for so long. The changing social climate and greater acceptance of LGBTQ people in recent years gave her more confidence to speak out. Holmes revealed her sexuality publicly in 2022, and she has described the immense relief and liberation she felt after coming out. She spoke about the mental toll that hiding such a fundamental part of her identity had taken on her over the years, including struggles with her mental health. She wanted to use her platform and profile to help others who might be in similar situations, showing that it is possible to live openly and happily regardless of age or background. She has also mentioned that reaching a point in her life where she felt secure enough in herself, and surrounded by supportive people, made it possible to finally share her truth. Holmes has been candid about the fact that she had previously self-harmed during particularly difficult periods, and she hoped that by speaking openly she could contribute to broader conversations about mental health and the pressures that come with hiding one's true identity.