When Naomi Osaka announced that she would not be attending press events at the 2021 French Open to protect her mental health many were ready to criticize her. She was prepared for a monetary fine for her choice and hoped the money went to benefit mental health organizations. I don’t think she was prepared for how many people looked at her like she was doing something wrong. As if protecting her mental health was the wrong decision.
To not put your arms around the sport’s biggest star when she admitted to struggling is a disgrace. Instead of trying to make Naomi Osaka feel as comfortable as possible, the French Open bullied her into dropping out of the tournament altogether. After the year we’ve all survived why are we still reacting like this to a player prioritizing their mental health?
Additional pressure was placed on Osaka with threats of suspending her from future Grand Slam competitions. This could have been handled so much better instead of trying to embarrass one of the athletes who fans love to cheer on.
Serena Williams, arguably the biggest tennis star, and Osaka share a special bond. Osaka has often spoken about Williams as her idol. She’s seen Williams be crucified in the press for things as simple as her wardrobe on the court. Williams was maligned for wearing a catsuit which was designed to help treat blood clots she suffered after giving birth to her daughter. The two athletes faced off at the 2018 US Open final. It was a match that ended with Osaka winning but at the expense of Williams being labeled “angry” when she dare challenge the chair umpire who inserted himself into the match. It was a moment that left Osaka crying and apologizing for defeating Williams. A moment that should have been about the two athletes was stolen from a male official.
When Williams was asked for her comment she supported Osaka,
“I feel for Naomi, and I wish I could give her a hug because I’ve been in those situations. You have to let her handle it the way she wants to in the best way she can.”
Her sister and fellow tennis superstar Venus Williams had one of the best responses to how she deals with the media.
There was some good that came from this entire fiasco. Calm, an app designed to help people meditate and relax, announced they would pick up the fine for any athlete who chooses to not participate in media during the 2021 Grand Slam. In addition, they would be making a $15,000 donation in Osaka’s name. The money will be going to Laureus, a French youth sports charity.
When athletes, celebrities, or even people we see every day in our lives take their lives we’re always left wondering if there was something we could’ve done to prevent such a final act. There is something we can do. Be kind and understanding. This situation could have been such a beautiful moment if handled differently and with care. A conversation about protecting your mental health and the resources available could’ve taken place.
Let’s all send love to Naomi. This world is a better place with her in it.
