‘They Are Wrong’- ‘King’ Richard Star Will Smith Once Slammed Naomi Osaka’s Haters Over Her Controversial French Open Decision

Naomi Osaka brought a new perspective to the bright world of trophies and lavish courts of tennis. The Japanese player boldly spoke out about her mental health issues. This gained a lot of support from all over the world, however, she faced a huge amount of backlash from the people too. At this point, Will Smith, who played the role of the father of Venus and Serena Williams in the movie, King Richard, took her side.

He stood up for Naomi Osaka and supported her decision. Osaka withdrew from the French Open citing reasons to not attend the press conference.

Will Smith stood in support of Naomi Osaka 

The Oscar-winning actress, Will Smith, last year took a stand for Naomi Osaka. The Japanese player had expressed her discomfort in attending press conferences citing her mental health reasons. Actor Will Smith took to his Instagram to show his support for the player as many people had criticized her for her actions.

He wrote a message for her in a blank notebook. He wrote, “Hey Naomi, You are Right. They are Wrong! I am with you,” he signed it off with his signature and a heart.

Furthermore, she was also fined $15,000 because she refused to attend the post-match conferences. But that was not it.

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They had warned her that more substantial fines and sanctions would come her way if she refuses to do the press conferences. However, Osaka stood true to her values and refused to play along.

How has tennis changed after Osaka’s statement? 

Osaka did not limit herself to just expressing her views. She has now collaborated with a mental health platform, ‘BetterHealth’ to promote the importance of mental well-being. Apart from that, many tennis players and athletes have come out with mental health issues.

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This includes Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps. Apart from that, tennis stars, Chris Evert, John McEnroe, and Serena Williams too, have voiced their support for the well-being of players.