‘Opened up a Can of Worms’ – On International Women’s Day, American Tennis Legend Has This to Say About Soon-To-Be Mother Naomi Osaka

Female athletes have come a long way in the past few decades. They have broken down barriers and shattered stereotypes to become some of the most iconic figures in sports. And as the world celebrates International Women’s Day, the legendary tennis player Chris Evert highlights the impact of female athletes on society. In a special interview with Eurosport, Chris talked about female athletes like Naomi Osaka and their contribution to tennis and sports in general.

Female athletes have broken records and won championships, sure. However, they have also used their platforms to advocate for social justice, gender equality, and other important issues. From Billie Jean King’s fight for equal prize money in tennis to Megan Rapinoe‘s activism for LGBTQ+ rights, female athletes have been at the forefront of some of the most significant social movements of our time.

Chris Evert talks about how Naomi Osaka “opened doors”

Speaking about Naomi Osaka, Evert tells Eurosport, “Female athletes transcend their sports now, they become icons. They use their platform to give very pertinent thoughts and talk about very important issues that relate to society, and they have the courage to speak up.”

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Evert praised Osaka for her bravery in opening up about mental health issues, saying, “Look what Naomi Osaka did with mental health. She just opened up a can of worms there and opened the door to have a conversation and to be empathetic and to realize that it is there and it is rampant – not only for athletes but people suffering from anxiety in general.”

Osaka, who is currently world No. 65 in women’s singles tennis, has been an outspoken advocate for mental health. In the past, she has talked openly about her struggles with depression and anxiety. In May 2021, Osaka withdrew from the French Open, citing the need to prioritize her mental health, after being fined for refusing to speak to the media. Now, she is pregnant and happily awaiting her first baby with her rapper boyfriend, Cordae.

Women now want to become athletes, not models or movie stars

Evert also spoke about the changing attitudes toward female athletes. “How they were not looked up to 40 years ago, 50 years ago.”

The 18-time Grand Slam champion focused on how women can have more career options. How they can be unapologetic and embrace their athleticism as Billie Jean King did. Through their achievements and activism, female athletes have inspired countless women and girls around the world to pursue their dreams.

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