‘I Wasn’t Handling It Well’- John McEnroe Lauds Naomi Osaka for Her Stand on Mental Health

Tennis is one of the most demanding games, both physically and mentally. While the players have always been careful about their physical fitness, they usually ignore the mental aspect. However, the scenario has changed now. With top players like Naomi Osaka discussing such issues openly, it will definitely encourage more players to take this seriously.

Former tennis star John McEnroe spoke about similar issues that he faced during his time on the tour. While crediting Naomi for standing up, he narrated his own battle with mental health, which he could not reveal back then.

John McEnroe on mental health

Recalling his playing days, McEnroe explained that it is not the right example to set if he regrets what he failed to achieve, rather than celebrating what he did achieve. Also, he lauded Naomi Osaka for accepting her issues publically. However, the American said that it used to happen in his era as well.

“I don’t think sets a good example for my kids or other kids that I am thinking about what I should have done instead of what I did do… Naomi Osaka has sort of opened the doors for that more than ever. But she is not the first person that experienced this, but she’s been more upfront about it,” he said.

Further, he spoke about the challenges he faced in his time.

“I went through things where I felt it was overwhelming and difficult and feeling like I wasn’t handling it well, feeling like it’s too much to ask to an individual.”

Here’s what McEnroe thinks one should do to overcome such issues.

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“it’s important to have people around you that you can trust. Hopefully got I don’t wanna say a team because I didn’t have a team but just people that are there to keep your head on straight and then nurture you in a way that allows you to sort of go out and give the type of effort you need to consistently give on a court.”

Naomi Osaka skips Wimbledon due to injury

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka is not having a great season. Along with her below-par performances in tournaments, she has also faced injury concerns. Recently, she opted to not participate in the Wimbledon Championship 2022 due to her Achilles injury. Notably, the 24-year-old also skipped the tournament last year.

Back then, she took a break to take care of her mental health issues. The 24-year-old had a brilliant start to her career, as she has won the US Open and the Australian Open twice.

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Having four Grand Slam titles at a mere 24 years of age, Osaka has proven her talent and capacity to handle the pressure of playing Grand Slams. Hopefully, she will regain her confidence soon and return to her best.