Naomi Osaka Stresses the Importance of Athletes Speaking out About Human Rights

Naomi Osaka recently discussed the importance of athletes using their platforms to fight against social injustice and racism.

Osaka is of Japanese and Haitian descent and is currently considered one of the best women’s tennis players in the world, first rising to prominence after defeating Serena Williams in the 2018 US Open Women’s Singles Final. Following her win, she became one of the highest-paid female athletes. Although Osaka has struggled with shyness in the past, she is outspoken on serious social issues, especially the recent murder of George Floyd.

I hate when random people say athletes shouldn’t get involved with politics and just entertain. Firstly, this is a human rights issue. Secondly, what gives you more right to speak than me? By that logic if you work at IKEA you are only allowed to talk about the “GRÖNLID” 🤷🏽‍♀️?

— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) June 4, 2020

Earlier today, she tweeted that she dislikes when people think athletes shouldn’t get involved with politics and should instead just stick to sports. She highlighted the importance of speaking up, especially as Floyd’s murder was a violation of human rights. Her tweet was in direct response to Fox News’ Laura Ingraham, who criticized Lebron James for mixing sports with politics and told him to “shut up and dribble.”

Earlier this week, Osaka posted a series of photos, demanding justice for George Floyd and informing her followers of the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement. Osaka firmly believes silence is an act of betrayal and is inspiring those around her to speak up as well.