Tom Daley praised for 'inspirational' message to 'impossibly brave' gay footballers

Tom Daley has been praised for his "inspirational" Alternative Christmas message.

The Olympic diver delivered Channel 4's annual festive message this year - which is meant to mirror that of the Queen's Christmas Day address - and in his speech, he discussed trans rights and inclusivity for all in every area of sport.

Speaking in his message, he said: "Think for a moment about the number of players too scared to speak up, and how lonely that must be. Nearly 7 per cent of people in the UK identify as gay or bisexual ... there are around 500 Premier League players. Statistically there are enough players for three football teams. At least one gay man at every club in the Premier League, living a lie."

Tom Daley was praised for his 'inspirational' Alternative Christmas Message 2021 (Channel 4)

And fans have taken to social media to praise Tom for his inspiring message.

"Fabulous Xmas message from the wonderful @TomDaley1994! Inclusivity and knitting, what’s not to love," one wrote.

A second added: " @TomDaley1994 absolutely brilliant alternative Xmas speech," whilst a third shared: "Make sure you give @TomDaley1994 Alternative Christmas Message a watch #inspirational."

Tom delivered this year's festive message (PA)

Tom Daley with his husband Dustin Lance Black (PA)

A fourth wrote: "Well done @TomDaley1994 for a beautiful on point alternative speech. Very teary and amazingly said. Everyone should be able to be them, no matter there you started! #loveislove there is no LGBTQ without the T."

"Immeasurably proud of you @TomDaley1994. Thank you for using your voice to create a positive change in our world. I share your Christmas wish and pray that it comes true. Merry Christmas!" a fifth added.

A sixth shared: "Tom Daley’s Christmas message on Channel 4 >>>>. What a legend. Love to everyone this Christmas, no matter who you are, how you identify, or who you love. We are all more alike than we think."

Tom Daley is always seen knitting - even at the Olympics (Clive Rose/Getty Images)

In his speech, Tom said it would be his Christmas wish that one footballer would come out.

He said: "If I had one Christmas wish it would be that next year that changes. That one impossibly brave Premier League player steps forward and says, ‘I’m gay’. That person would give hope to ­thousands of teenagers struggling with their sexuality.

"We can make this country the most accepting, the most inclusive, the most progressive country on Earth."