Gay Teen Divers Max Linan and Matteo Santoro Celebrate One-Year Anniversary Amid World Championships

In a heartwarming moment for LGBTQ+ visibility in international sports, teenage diving stars Max Linan and Matteo Santoro recently marked their one-year anniversary as boyfriends, sharing their joy with fans and fellow athletes just days before the start of the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Linan, 19, represents Spain, while Santoro, 18, dives for Italy. Their relationship has drawn widespread attention, not only for their achievements in the pool but also for their openness and confidence as young gay athletes competing at the highest level of their sport .

The couple’s anniversary was celebrated on social media, where Linan posted a series of affectionate photos, including an image of the two holding hands under a table and wearing matching bracelets. Santoro responded to the post with an enthusiastic series of heart emojis, reflecting the couple’s excitement and pride in their relationship . Public reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with messages of congratulations pouring in from fans and fellow athletes alike. Notably, Santoro’s springboard synchro partner, Chiara Pellacani, added her own support, highlighting the camaraderie and encouragement within the diving community .

Both divers are preparing for individual and team events at the World Aquatics Championships, with Linan set to compete in the 1-meter springboard and Santoro entered in the 3-meter, mixed 3-meter, and 10-meter team events . Their successes are well documented: Linan has previously earned two bronze medals at the Diving Grand Prix, while Santoro boasts three gold medals from the World Junior Diving Championships, multiple medals from the World Championships, the Diving World Cup, and the European Championships .

For many LGBTQ+ youth and young athletes, Linan and Santoro’s public celebration marks a significant step forward in representation. Both divers have spoken openly about their relationship and identities, with Linan confirming to Outsports that they are “gay and boyfriends” . Their visibility comes at a time when LGBTQ+ athletes around the world continue to face barriers, but also benefit from increasing acceptance and allyship, especially in international sporting events where diverse backgrounds and identities converge .

Santoro, reflecting on his own achievements, shared his enthusiasm for both his sport and the supportive relationships around him. Following a recent silver medal win in the mixed synchro event with Pellacani, Santoro described their friendship as “almost like brother and sister,” underscoring the importance of strong, affirming connections both in and out of competition .

The openness and pride with which Linan and Santoro share their relationship have made them role models for a new generation of LGBTQ+ athletes. Their willingness to be visible and authentic at such a young age, especially within the traditionally conservative world of elite sports, sends a powerful message about the possibilities for inclusion, acceptance, and happiness in the athletic community .

Their story has resonated with LGBTQ+ fans and allies globally, serving not only as a celebration of their love but as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others who may be navigating similar journeys. As they prepare to compete on the world stage, Linan and Santoro are, in their own words and actions, diving into a future where every athlete can be proud—of their sport, their identity, and their love.