Former Welsh rugby great Gareth Thomas took to social media over the weekend to reveal that he had been the victim of an assault in his home town of Cardiff, Wales.
"I was the victim in my home city of a hate crime for my sexuality," Thomas, 44, said in the video, in which he appeared bruised and visibly shaken.
He continued: "I want to say thank you to the police who were involved and were very helpful and allowed me to do restorative justice with the people who did this.
"There are an awful lot of people out there who want to hurt us, but unfortunately for them there is a lot more who want to help us heal so this I hope will be a positive message."
In a statement, South Wales Police confirmed that a 16-year-old perpetrator had received 'restorative justice' after admitting to his involvement.
"Restorative justice was at the request of Mr Thomas and accepted by the teenager who admitted assault and was apologetic for his actions," the statement read.
"Restorative justice is about putting victim needs at the centre of the criminal justice system, finding positive solutions to crime and encouraging young people to be accountable for the consequences of their actions."
South Wales Police also clarified the definition of a hate crime.
"A hate crime is any crime motivated by hostility on the grounds of race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or transgender identity," the statement noted.
"Hate crime has no place in society and has always been a priority for South Wales Police."
Thomas, who came out as gay in 2009, received a wave of support on social media from fellow sporting personalities.
"Sorry it happened mate but there are thousands who support you," former Welsh goalkeeper Neville Southall wrote.
He added: "Love that you concentrate on the positives. Keep being a role model."
