US President Barack Obama has heaped praise on LA Galaxy's Robbie Rogers.
The 2014 MLS Cup winners were presented at the White House on Monday and during the his speech, President Obama made special mention of the courage of midfielder Rogers who became the first openly gay professional male athlete to visit the famous Washington DC lodgings. President Obama said: "I want to recognize what Robbie Rogers of the Galaxy has done for a lot of people by blazing a trail as one of professional sports' first openly gay players.
"My guess is that, as an athlete, Robbie wants to win first and foremost - that's what competition is all about. But, Robbie, you've also inspired a whole lot of folks here and around the world, and we are very proud of you."
Rogers, who publicly came out as gay in early 2013, admitted it was a thrill to be singled out by the President.
"I was really surprised actually," Rogers said.
"[We're] from all walks of life, but to be here because we won a championship is special and it's special to be recognized by the President.
"Just for him to mention where I've come from - it's special to me."
