Last year, when Simone Biles announced that she would withdraw her name from Tokyo Olympics final rounds, she drew the world’s attention. Citing mental health as her reason to take the call, Simone, since then, has found herself amidst a pool of opinions. While many were disappointed by her decision, legends like Aly Raisman, Michael Phelps, Adam Rippon, and others came out in her support. Joining the list, tennis star Naomi Osaka, too, extends her voice in support of the gymnastics G.O.A.T.

As Naomi sat with the team of TODAY to promote her first children’s book, ‘The Way Champs Play,’ the young athlete shared many insightful details. Talking about her vision for the future generation, the tennis champ also talks about Simone Biles and her journey.

Naomi praised Simone Biles for her courage 

While Naomi reflected on her thoughts about Serena announcing her retirement from the sport, curious anchors could not help but bring the topic of Simone into the discussion. As the hosts asked Naomi to share her thoughts, as to what she thinks about Biles’ stepping away “for her own mental health?” The four-time grand slam singles champion had a lot to say.

Lauding Simone, Naomi remarked, “I thought at that moment that was really courageous of her.” Talking about how everyone has a different journey, she says that paths are “all unique to us.” Showing her faith in the Olympic gold medalist, Osaka remarked, “I’ll always support her.”

Read More: “I Woke Up — Lost It”: Simone Biles Made a Heartfelt Confession About Her Last Days of Olympics Routine in 2021

Having seen Simone all these years, Naomi knows that the gymnastics maestro has “great intentions.” For those unversed, Naomi published her debut children’s book on 6th December. It was her first publication under her firm Hana Kuma.

When Naomi spoke about her on-court journey 

Much like Simone, Naomi too refrains from playing actively on the court, for she finds no reason to play when she is not feeling well. When she sat for the interview with The Late Night Show With Colbert, she remarked, “why would I keep pushing through it, when I can kind of confront it and fix it and then continue on my journey.”

Even though 2022 is ending, much conservation remains on the topic of mental health. Many still feel unsure whether or not to speak their heart out. But with names like Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka, Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, and others speaking up, people are finding their voices as well.

Watch This Story: Relive the unseen images of Olympic medalist Simone Biles with her loving family.