Michael Johnson, the four-time Olympic gold medalist, was one of the greatest athletes of his time. As a track and field athlete, he has experienced all the issues in a sportsman’s life. Now the retired U.S. sprinter uses his experience to guide other athletes. He also speaks about the several injustices in the sports world. Recently, Johnson used social media to deliver an important message to athletes and other professionals.

The Olympic champion wrote on his official Twitter account about the importance of mental health in sports. Since then, the post has caused quite a stir in the athletics community and is making people rethink their approach to training and competition.

Michael Johnson’s vital message about mental health

Michael Johnson?s message has also resonated with many athletes facing career difficulties. This isn?t the first time that Johnson has spoken publicly about athletes? mental health. In 2021, when Naomi Osaka abandoned the French Open because of mental health issues, the ace sprinter expressed his concern and support for her decision.

He said that athletes have to perform under immense pressure and fulfill all their supporters’ expectations. Johnson understands the toll this constant pressure can take on an athlete’s mental well-being. He pleads with the trainers and coaches to put mental health right next to physical health on their priority list.

In this recent tweet, Johnson commends the Wimbledon tennis tournament players for speaking out about their mental health struggles. He believes it takes immense courage for athletes to open up about their vulnerabilities in such a competitive environment. The superstar sprinter was also glad that the athletes understood “the benefit of using mental coaches”. He asks the sports executive and other athletes to note the positive impact of addressing mental health, saying, ?You don?t have to be sick to get better!?

Michael Johnson’s words spark a movement

Michael Johnson doesn’t just preach the message; he also practices it. In 2012, in an interview with an online source, he revealed that he, too, sought the help of a professional when the pressure of the game overwhelmed him. There, he learned to focus on himself instead of the competition. He said, “Of course elite sport can be bad for your mental health,” and that it can easily override all the physical prowess of an athlete. This latest tweet from Johnson has sparked a movement among athletes and fans alike.

Read More: Olympic Legend Michael Johnson Believes FloJo Did Much More Than Usain Bolt on the Tracks

Many Twitter users have commented on the post, agreeing with the star athlete. They believe that all athletes should consider mental health as important as physical health. They have also asked the managers to take note and give their athletes the help they need before a breakdown.

What do you think about Johnson’s words? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch This Story: Two Years After the Tokyo Olympics, Gymnastics Queen Simone Biles Still Can?t Get Over Her Fear of ?Twisties?