Ricky Martin is livin' la vida open, says he's gay

New York: Ricky Martin is no longer denying the rumours: He is confirming that he is gay.

In a statement on his website, Martin said: "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am."

The Livin' La Vida Loca singer's sexuality has been speculated about for years, but he has never directly addressed it and was usually seen with beautiful women.

However, the singer said that writing his memoirs helped him realise that he had to be free with himself, and not keep any more secrets. His book has not been published yet.