Gay NFL draft prospect Michael Sam praised by Michelle Obama

American footballer Michael Sam, who aims to become the NFL's first openly gay player, has won praise from First Lady Michelle Obama.

The 24-year-old former University of Missouri athlete revealed his sexuality on Sunday.


Mrs Obama took to Twitter to call Sam "an inspiration to all of us".
The National Football League has also welcomed the defensive lineman's announcement, saying Sam has "honesty and courage".
Mrs Obama said of Sam: "We couldn't be prouder of your courage both on and off the field."

In the interview that aired on ESPN on Sunday, Sam said: "I came to tell the world I'm an openly gay man.

"If I work hard, if I make plays - that's all that should matter."

The athlete completed his college football career in December and is expected to be drafted by an NFL franchise in May.

He is said to have revealed his sexuality to his former college teammates at the University of Missouri's Mizzou Tigers, but admitted doing so publicly was "a weight off his chest".
"I probably may be the first but I won't be the last," he added. "And I think only good things will come from this."

Former college coach Gary Pinkel supported Sam on Monday, telling US media the athlete is "a great example of just how important it is to be respectful of others".