The world has ignored the issue of mental health and its effects for a long time now. However, athletes like Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka have come ahead and spoken openly about it. The world needs more people like them in order to discuss the ill effects of mental health issues.
Simone Biles recently withdrew from her Olympic Gymnastics event citing mental health reasons. The former Olympic gold medalist has faced a backlash from fans and spectators regarding her decision. However, Cartoon Network has shown its support on Twitter for Biles and Osaka and applauded them for their strength.
Giving @Simone_Biles & @NaomiOsaka their flowers for speaking up & protecting their mental & physical health 🏆🙌🏾 Thank you for inspiring us, not just by advancing your sports but also showing your human side, and we love you for all of it#Olympics #PowerpuffGirls #SimoneBiles pic.twitter.com/FUB0shVYwT
— Cartoon Network (@cartoonnetwork) July 28, 2021
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The fight against mental health issues in the sports world
Simone Biles withdrew from her individual event at the Tokyo Olympic Games in order to focus on her mental health. The American faced a lot of criticism for her decision, with people calling her weak for not being strong enough. However, the rest of the world has shown its positive side and people have supported Biles’ decision.
Naomi Osaka faced backlash in June when she withdrew from the French Open citing mental health issues. The Japanese star did not attend the mandatory press conferences after her first-round match. As a result of her decision, the authorities fined her $15000, and the world did not sit back.
Osaka did not want to interact with the press or media, as it harms and affects her mental health. Biles had supported the young star during her war with the media back in July. She spoke in support of the World No. 2 and talked about her experience with mental health as well.
Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka getting support from all around the world
Naomi Osaka lost in the third round of the women’s singles event. She was the second seed in Tokyo and was a favorite to win the gold in her homeland. Biles withdrew from the gymnastics event and possibly reduced the USA’s chances of a gold medal. However, the world stood strong in showing its support for the two brave women.
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Sometimes stepping away and giving yourself a break is everything you need. #mentalhealthmatters #NaomiOsaka #meghanmarkle #SimoneBiles. pic.twitter.com/yN6eIKejqM
— Amelia E. Noyes (@IamNOYES) July 29, 2021
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Nothing but LOVE & RESPECT… #NaomiOsaka 🎾 & #SimoneBiles #MindYourMind #YourMentalHealthMatters pic.twitter.com/0ywVyXlaCb
— DOPE x BLACK Nation (@DopeBlackNation) July 27, 2021
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Even though they lost or did not participate, personal space needs to be given to the athletes. Athletes do not open up very easily about their feelings and emotions. However, when they do, the fans and spectators need to respect their decision.
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