Naomi Osaka Backs Out of French Open to Focus on Mental Health
Naomi Osaka backs out of the French Open a week into the tournament to focus on her mental health. Last week, Osaka declined to participate in news conferences and was fined $15,000. In one final statement over Twitter, the 23-year-old tennis pro stepped away from the court altogether to prioritize self-care.
Since winning her first Grand Slam Title in 2018, Osaka has become a four-time tournament winner and a fan favorite in tennis. Through all this success, Osaka revealed the ‘long bouts of depression’ and anxiety she faced within the last few years.
“Anyone that knows me knows I am introverted and anyone that has seen me at tournaments will notice that I’m often wearing headphones as that helps dull my social anxiety,” Osaka wrote in her statement.
Never apologize for putting your mental health first. 👊🏻
— S.E. Cupp (@secupp) May 31, 2021
Kyrie with a message for Naomi Osaka 🙏 pic.twitter.com/GIogIg7BJa
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) June 1, 2021
It’s never easy to be vulnerable, especially about one’s mental health. Osaka found herself doing just that – only for a global audience. Her words have garnered support from fans, fellow athletes, and even Nike.
“I wish I could give her a hug right now because I know what it’s like,” Serena Williams stated in a press conference.
“I feel for Naomi. I know what it’s like, I’ve been in that position”
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) June 1, 2021
Serena Williams has spoken following Naomi Osaka’s decision to withdraw from the French Open.#bbctennis
Proud of you, @naomiosaka. https://t.co/ReCg1K33oA
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) May 31, 2021
“You shouldn’t ever have to make a decision like this. So damn impressive taking the high road when the powers that be don’t protect their own. Major respect,” Golden State Warriors player Stephen Curry said in a statement.
I am so sad about Naomi Osaka.I truly hope she will be ok. As athletes we are taught to take care of our body, and perhaps the mental & emotional aspect gets short shrift. This is about more than doing or not doing a press conference. Good luck Naomi- we are all pulling for you!
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) May 31, 2021
For now, Osaka is taking some much-needed time for herself and is practicing self-care after a difficult tournament season. She will then begin working with Grand Slam to find better ways of engaging with players. While she does so, read up on how sports stars like her are working to change the stigmas of mental health in athletics.
Writer | @IlanaDavis24
