Figure Skater Brian Boitano -- Yup, I'm Gay

Brian Boitano likes boytanos ... the figure skating legend has just announced he's gay.

Turns out, Boitano had never addressed his sexuality publicly until today ... when he released a statement regarding his recent appointment to the U.S. delegation for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

Boitano says, "Being gay is just one part of who I am. First and foremost I am an American athlete and I am proud to live in a country that encourages diversity, openness and tolerance."

It seems pretty obvious Boitano timed his announcement to thumb his nose at the Russian establishment ... which has planted itself firmly against homosexuality.

"Brian Boitano doesn't take sh*t from anybody" -- South Park