What tennis player Naomi Osaka did on Monday morning was brave and I applaud her!
The reigning U.S. Open champion announced that she was withdrawing from the already in progress French Open.
It all stems from her decision to opt out of the tournament's "mandatory" media interviews, citing mental health concerns, including a history of depression. She hoped that any fines issued would go toward mental health awareness. And, indeed, fines were issued: Osaka was penalized $15,000. If that wasn't enough, tournament organizers threatened to expel her from the tournament if she kept it up......So, she chose herself over tennis...and I don't blame her!
In a social media post, Osaka revealed that she's been battling depression since winning her first major at the 2018 US Open. She also revealed that she's an introvert, and wearing headphones at tournaments have helped with her social anxiety.
She's also hoping she could have a conversation with officials from the WTA upon her return.
"I really want to work with the Tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press and fans," she wrote.
