In Naomi Osaka’s withdrawal, some see a ‘wake-up call’ for sports that neglect mental health

Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open after saying she wouldn’t speak to reporters at the event, citing mental health issues. Her decision has drawn praise from athletes across the sports world. (Christian Hartmann/Reuters)

Washington Post • June 1 2021

By Liz Clarke with commentary from Jeffrey A. Lieberman, M.D.

Although she has withdrawn from the French Open, tennis star Naomi Osaka this week scored a victory that athletes and advocates say will have an enduring impact by putting athletes’ mental health in the global spotlight — and sending a warning shot to the sports industry that it cannot disregard the well-being of those who play the games.

In Naomi Osaka’s withdrawal, some see a ‘wake-up call’ for sports that neglect mental health

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