In the dazzling arena of professional tennis, where powerful serves and breathtaking rallies captivate audiences worldwide, a different kind of match is underway, one that unfolds not on the pristine courts, but within the intricate contours of the human heart and mind. One such story is about Amanda Anisimova, a talented player whose journey took an unexpected turn due to a devastating personal loss.

Her story teaches us that keeping your mental well-being in pristine condition is equally important to performing well on the court. And as we follow Anisimova’s journey, another tennis player, Coco Gauff, enters the picture with a message that extends beyond the confines of the tennis court.

Coco Gauff on Amanda Anisimova’s unforeseen journey

Amanda Anisimova’s journey to success had moments of great talent and sudden troubles. After doing really well and becoming the world no.21 in 2019, her life changed because of a very sad event. Her dad and coach, Konstantin, passed away suddenly just before the US Open in 2019. He had a heart attack and died when he was 52. This unexpected loss made her tennis career very difficult.

Coco Gauff recently opened up about her taking a long term mental health break from professional tennis. Gauff stated, “I’d say when she announced the initial break, I was surprised. I don’t think anybody was expecting it or anything. But I can understand really… Everybody needs a break from everything. Maybe college has always been one of her aspirations, I don’t know. I think as long as she’s happy & healthy, I think everybody should support her decision.”

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Anisimova decided to take time off to cope with her grief. She was not just dealing with tennis, but also her own feelings. At just 20 years old, she was grappling with a significant challenge: how to find a way to balance her emotions and her dedication to the sport she loved. This issue of mental health is no longer a secret or a hush-hush topic in the tennis world. Many popular names have come forward to share their stories with anxiety and depression.

Tennis players and mental health

The issue of mental health in tennis came to the forefront in 2022 when The New York Times published an eye-opening article titled “The Mental Health of Tennis Players Is No Longer in the Shadows.” It wasn’t just Amanda Anisimova who had faced these challenges; other players had their own battles too. Talking about mental health is no longer a secret. It’s a normal thing, and it’s breaking the old idea that it’s something to hide.

Top players like Maria Sakkari have been working with psychologists for years. They see it as a great way to take care of themselves. Iga Swiatek, who won the French Open in 2023, not only gave money to mental health groups but also travels with a psychologist. Even well-known players like Venus Williams are helping out by giving money for therapy, and Mardy Fish’s story about his struggle with anxiety is now known by many.

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In a world often fixated on unending success, Amanda Anisimova’s brave decision to put her mental well-being first shines as a beacon of inspiration. Coco Gauff’s unwavering support adds an exclamation point to this narrative, underscoring the crucial lesson that athletes are more than just competitors—they’re individuals with intricate feelings and requirements.

WATCH THIS STORY: Serena Williams pays tribute to Roger Federer.