After shattering 22 world records, winning five Olympic gold medals and earning himself the nickname “the Thorpedo”, Ian Thorpe took to Australian television Sunday night to overturn what he said had become the “big lie” in his life.

“What happened was, I felt that the lie had become so big that I didn’t want people to question my integrity and a little bit of ego comes into this,” Thorpe told Sir Michael Parkinson in a 90-minute interview on the Ten network. “I didn’t want people to think that I had lied about everything.”

The 31-year-old swimmer said: “I’m not straight and this is only something that very recently – we’re talking in the past two weeks – I’ve been comfortable telling the closest people around me.”

Thorpe said his mother was shocked, but he was embraced by everyone following his coming out.

Watch part of Ian’s coming out interview below:

Check out some of the Celebs and athletes who took to twitter to congratulate Ian on his decision to come out:

Former Minnesota Vikings punter Chris Kluwe congratulated Thorpe:

Much support to @IanThorpe. Another example of how your sexuality has nothing to do with your abilities in sports.

— Chris Kluwe (@ChrisWarcraft) July 13, 2014

Ricky Martin called Ian’s announcement “brave”:

Congrats @IanThorpe! Brave man! Happy for you! Millions appreciate what you've done! Proud of you! #SelfLove

— Ricky Martin (@ricky_martin) July 13, 2014

2-Time Olympic Figure Skater Johnny Weir tweeted:

Very pleased for and proud of @IanThorpe! Incredible champion and beautiful man! #Thorpedo

— Johnny Weir (@JohnnyGWeir) July 13, 2014

X-Men teen actor Troye Sivan said:

Australian swimmer and legend Ian Thorpe, who has broken 22 records, just came out. So proud of him, & excited for Australia's future!

— Troye Sivan (@troyesivan) July 12, 2014

Australian diver Matthew Mitcham, who came out as gay before winning a gold medal at the 2008 Olympic, tweeted:

Whatever your opinion, remember that it's OUR reaction to Ian's news that determines how easy it is for the next gay superstar to come out.

— Matthew Mitcham (@matthew_mitcham) July 13, 2014

Out NBA basketball player Jason Collins said:

Cheers @IanThorpe. Your story will help & inspire many. Wishing you happiness & know that millions of us support and love you. #pride #LGBT

— Jason Collins (@jasoncollins34) July 12, 2014

3-time Olympian Libby Trickett:

Incredibly moved by @IanThorpe's interview tonight. It's so obvious the power of honesty and integrity. Be proud Thorpie #liveyourtruth

— Libby Trickett (@libby_trickett) July 13, 2014

Singer, Actor and Judge on X Factor Australia, Nat Bassingthwaighte said:

@IanThorpe be proud of yourself my friend..You have achieved greatness for your country, your family and friends.. An inspiration!

— Nat Bassingthwaighte (@nataliebassing) July 13, 2014

Ian Thorpe took to twitter to thank everyone who has sent him a message of support:

To Everyone who has sent a message of support I sincerely Thank you!

— Ian Thorpe (@IanThorpe) July 13, 2014