Matthew Mitcham, famed for clinching gold in the 2008 Beijing Olympics as the first openly gay male athlete to do so, has taken his talents to a whole new arena – OnlyFans. For $10 a month, fans can access content that’s a bit too spicy for Instagram and TikTok. "Everything that would be banned on Instagram and TikTok," teases his OnlyFans bio, hinting at the allure behind the paywall.
Since launching his OnlyFans account, Mitcham has shown that athletes can strike gold outside traditional sports. With a reported income triple that of his athletic peak, Mitcham controls his content, ensuring it aligns with his artistic philosophy. "My philosophy has always been that if I can defend it as art, then I’ll share it," he explains, emphasizing the site's potential beyond its NSFW reputation.
“It's about selling the sizzle, not the steak,” Mitcham explains, highlighting his focus on tasteful and artistic content.
While some might shy away from OnlyFans due to its adult content reputation, Mitcham found inspiration in the platform's diversity, noting creators like DJ Khaled and actress Jessie Cave. "There are loads of people who, you know, want to see a little bit more that other platforms censor," he says, comfortably showcasing his physique – a testament to years of athletic dedication.
Despite misconceptions, Mitcham's mainstream entertainment career remains unaffected. From queer plays to reality TV, his OnlyFans venture only adds a new layer to his public persona. "They just have to exercise an abundance of caution and I get that," he acknowledges regarding potential employers' concerns.
Reflecting on his journey, Mitcham cherishes the overwhelmingly positive response to his openness about his sexuality and life. The 2008 Olympic Games marked a significant moment, with Mitcham coming out several months prior, wanting to focus on his performance without lingering assumptions.
Today, he continues to engage with fans through Q&A sessions, maintaining a respectful and supportive community on his OnlyFans page. "People appreciate having this access to me," he notes, valuing the direct line to those who have followed his career for years.
Matthew Mitcham's transition from Olympic icon to OnlyFans content creator reflects a broader trend of athletes seeking new avenues for self-expression and financial success. With his ever-supportive fanbase, Mitcham proves that fame and authenticity can coexist, regardless of the platform.