You’ve probably already heard, tennis star Naomi Osaka pulled out of the French Open today. And wow has she got everyone talking about it.
From her fellow tennis stars to journalists, athletes, celebrities and health experts around the world, the 23-year-old is being praised for having the courage to prioritise her mental health.
Ok sure, there are a few who are not celebrating her bravery, but meh… at CelebrityKind, we don’t pay attention to those trying to tear someone down for making a decision which works for her and her mental wellbeing.
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In a message posted on Insta, Naomi explained how she has “suffered long bouts of depression since the US open in 2018” and experiences “huge waves of anxiety” before speaking to the media.
“I’m gonna take some time away from the court now, but when the time is right, I really want to work with the Tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press and fans,” she writes.
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So back to those who are showing their support:
Let’s start with fellow tennis star Serena Williams who knows all too well the challenges of being in the spotlight. In a post-match news conference this week, Serena said she “feels for Naomi.”
“Everyone is different and everyone handles things differently. You just have to let her handle it the way she wants to and the best way she thinks she can. That’s the only thing I can say. I think she is doing the best she can.”
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18-time Grand Slam Singles champion Martina Navratilova took to Twitter to share her thoughts:
“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 and emotional aspect gets short shrift. This is about more than doing or not doing a press conference. Good luck Naomi – we are pulling for you!”
Aussie tennis star Pat Cash weighed in on Instagram:
“Having done a similar thing 20 years ago, I’m 100% behind Naomi. Compassionless government and governing organisations need to wake up. Naomi is not the only one suffering!”
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Basketball legend Stephen Curry also highlighted Naomi’s courage:
“You shouldn’t ever have to make a decision like this – but so damn impressive taking the high road when the powers that be don’t protect their own. Major respect,” he tweeted.
Actress Jameela Jamil shared a series of thoughts on Twitter including one which repeated the words: “it’s not narcissistic to prioritize your mental health” and another which read, “imagine punishing someone for having anxiety…in 2021.”
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Supermodel and new mama Naomi Campbell commented “take care of you and be kind and easy on yourself. Your health comes first…gracious and brave for you to share with the world.”
But perhaps it was award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay who really summed it up:
“Take care of yourself like Naomi Osaka,” she tweeted, highlighting with those simple words, how we can all admire Naomi for doing what’s best for her.
(Feature Image Credit: Rena Schild/Shutterstock.com)