The world's number two women's tennnis player also addresses her feelings about the press in a new Time op-ed in which she thanks family and friends for their support amid her mental health struggles.
- Jul 9, 2021
AceShowbiz - Meghan Markle reached out to Naomi Osaka after the latter decided to withdraw from French Open due to mental health issue. The Japanese tennis star revealed that among those who offered support for her was the Duchess of Sussex.
Writing for a new Time op-ed, the 23-year-old Grand Slam champion showed her gratitude for everyone who was there for her during the trying time. "I also want to thank those in the public eye who have supported, encouraged and offered such kind words," so she wrote.
While she didn't share what Meghan told her when she reached out, Naomi mentioned Michael Phelps, NBA star Stephen Curry and fellow tennis pro Novak Djokovic also showed support for her. As for Michael, Naomi revealed, "Michael Phelps told me that by speaking up I may have saved a life. If that's true, then it was all worth it."
In the op-ed, the world's number two women's tennis player also addressed her feelings about the press. She shared that she regularly gives in-depth interviews, adding that she felt that the traditional press conference "is out of date and in great need of a refresh." She noted, "Perhaps we should give athletes the right to take a mental break from media scrutiny on a rare occasion without being subject to strict sanctions."
Naomi made headlines back in May when it was revealed that she was fined $15,000 for refusing to take part in a press conferece, citing mental health issues. Later, she announced her withdrawal from the competition. She also explained why she skipped the press conference, stating that she "thought it was better to exercise self-care and skip the press conferences." In addition, she withdrew from Wimbledon to continue working on her mental health.
As for Meghan, she got candid about her depression during her and Prince Harry's interview with Oprah Winfrey. While in tears, the Duchess told the host that the British royal family refused to let her seek help as "it wouldn't be good for the institution." She recalled, "I just didn't see a solution. I didn't want to be alive anymore."
