“Not Feel Ashamed or Embarrassed”: Olympic Gold Medalist Draws Parallels With Naomi Osaka Over Mental Health Issues

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has been one of the most prominent advocates of mental health conversation in the sports fraternity. For this, the Japanese tennis star has received enormous support from professional athletes and supporters. Recently, retired American alpine ski racer and Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn supported Osaka’s stand.

It all started at the French Open 2021, where Osaka boycotted the media duties, choosing to prioritize her mental health. Furthermore, on facing a fine from the organizers, the 23-year-old decided to withdraw from the event. Naturally, it sparked a worldwide debate, where professionals from all sports addressed the mental health conversation.

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Alpine Ski Racer Lindsey Vonn on supporting Naomi Osaka and mental health discussions

First and foremost, Vonn addressed that she openly supports Naomi Osaka‘s decision. Afterward, she compared the impact of the conversations now to the time she had talked about her mental health issues. Additionally, she mentioned how Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love and 28 Olympic medals holder Michael Phelps have also been talking about the same for a long time.

“It’s becoming more normal,” Vonn said. “It’s great that this is the direction that we are going in. I spoke about mental health in 2012. At that time, it was not talked about. It was very foreign to everyone, and it was a big thing.”

Aug 30, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Naomi Osaka of Japan enters to play Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic on day one of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Furthermore, Vonn, the 82 World Cup wins holder, added that people now understand why athletes face mental health issues. For this, she credited awareness, which even helped players vocalize their problems.

“And we can all help each other,” Vonn continued. “That’s the biggest thing with all of this. We can support each other and be open about what’s going on in our lives, and not feel ashamed or embarrassed, which is what I felt for the longest time.”

Indeed, Osaka is one significant cog in the wheels turning in the right direction. Hopefully, players and tournament organizers will soon find a solution that works best for both worlds.

Also Read: “Who Are We to Judge?” – Eugenie Bouchard Feels for Naomi Osaka After Similar Struggles

When will Osaka return on the tennis tour?

After her US Open heartbreak, Osaka announced an indefinite break from tennis. Hence, it is still unknown when she will be returning to the WTA Tour.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 03: Naomi Osaka of Japan looks dejected during her match against Leylah Fernandez of Canada in the third round of the women’s singles at the US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 03, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by TPN/Getty Images)

However, the 23-year-old said that she has been feeling that itch to compete professionally again. Her comeback doesn’t seem to be too far away and her fans are eagerly counting down the days. 

Watch this story: A Day With Tennis Star Naomi Osaka

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