It’s hard to hide one’s excitement when in the presence of greatness. And, when the company involves the likes of athletes like Michael Johnson and Naomi Osaka, containing one’s emotions might be difficult.
In a recent event, the two iconic personalities met each other and had a fun interactive session.
Michael Johnson interviews Naomi Osaka
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One of the greatest athletes to have ever graced the sport, Michael Johnson, has won 4 Olympic golds medals and 8 World Championships. A track and field legend, Johnson is also a Tennis Fan. We have often seen him express his liking for the sport over social media as well.
Michael has also actively spoken about the mental issues faced by athletes and has become one of the primary advocates for mental health issues in sports. Incidentally, he also applauded and supported Naomi Osaka, when she decided to take a break from the sport, citing mental health concerns.
At a recent event, Johnson and Naomi met up with a bunch of children and spent some time engaging in different activities, followed by an interview. Notably, post the interview, the sprinter’s reaction was absolute “gold”.
Great day yesterday interviewing Naomi Osaka and inspiring young girls to strive for greatness. @Nike @Laureus_USA https://t.co/CTetpbTkQq
— Michael Johnson (@MJGold) April 15, 2022
Ha! @naomiosaka I guess my bio could be considered a bit of a flex! 😆 Enjoyed it yesterday. Thanks for all you do to inspire young girls to chase their dreams! pic.twitter.com/MHRN2aENrO
— Michael Johnson (@MJGold) April 15, 2022
After Naomi posted a photo thanking Michael for taking some time out for the event, Johnson reposted the photo with a caption of his own. “Ha! @naomiosaka I guess my bio could be considered a bit of a flex! Enjoyed it yesterday. Thanks for all you do to inspire young girls to chase their dreams!” he said on Twitter.
ALSO READ: US Olympic Legend Michael Johnson Gives Crucial Advice on Reaching New Year 2022 Resolutions
Michael once talked about Osaka’s mental health
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Naomi Osaka was once dealing with severe mental health issues while competing. When she opened up about it after stepping away from the sport, Johnson was probably one of the first people to publicly address the tennis star’s health and extend his support. He said that it was a “good decision”.
On a separate occasion, Johnson said that many of us don’t understand what Osaka was going through with her mental struggles as an athlete. He also quoted her saying, “I’m still trying to figure it out in terms of what this is.”
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Do you think this was the first of many interactions between the two sporting greats? Would you like to see them collaborate soon again? Let us know in the comments section below.