Naomi Osaka does not regret opening up about her mental struggles as she is in a much better place now while also embracing inspiring others to do the same.
Osaka’s decision to skip press conferences at last year’s French Open to protect her mental health caused a lot of controversy in the world of tennis. She later withdrew from the event after receiving a fine and facing even more questions about her decision.
She then went public with mental health struggles, including depression and anxiety. In a recent interview with Self, Osaka talked about her decision to open up about her mental struggles and how many famous athletes reached out to her:
"I just didn’t feel like I had to do things for others. I wanted to start listening to myself and doing things that I needed to do to protect my mindset. After I opened up about my struggles, I spoke to a lot of athletes that told me they too had quietly been suffering."
"I didn’t expect any of it [the ensuing attention], and to be honest it was a bit strange. For the first time I had press at my house and at my hotel, that had never happened before. It was a strange feeling and I was shocked that people cared that much."
Osaka was happy to inspire others, who saw her move and were motivated to speak about mental health as well. For the former World No. 1, this was important as it started an essential conversation about mental health.
"I guess I am glad it gave others the opportunity to also speak up even if that wasn’t my intention or what I expected. It started a conversation that I think we all needed to start having."
The Japanese player also revealed that right now, she feels much more comfortable in who she is than she did before. She could grow as a person, and last year's French Open was only a part of her growth as a person.
"At this stage in my life I feel very content in my mental health journey. I feel comfortable in who I am and where I have come from. There have been ups and downs and I wouldn’t change a thing, which really helps to give me inner peace."