Naomi Osaka’s journey at the 2025 French Open ended in a tearful first-round loss to 10th seed Paula Badosa. Despite winning the first set, Osaka succumbed to blisters and committed 54 unforced errors, leading to a 7–6(1), 1–6, 4–6 defeat.
Naomi Osaka’s Tearful Exit Reflects Mental Health Struggles
During the post-match press conference, Osaka, visibly distressed, expressed her frustration:
“As time goes on, I feel like I should be doing better. I hate disappointing people.”
She briefly exited the room before returning to answer two final questions, highlighting the emotional toll of the sport.
How Naomi Osaka Is Changing the Conversation on Athlete Mental Health
This incident underscores Osaka’s ongoing advocacy for mental health awareness in sports. In 2021, she withdrew from the French Open to prioritize her well-being, citing the detrimental effects of press conferences on her mental health.
Osaka has been open about her struggles with depression and anxiety, emphasizing the need for systemic change in how athletes’ mental health is perceived and supported.
Naomi Osaka’s Vision for Reforming Press Conferences in Tenn
Osaka advocates for a reformed press conference format that is more peer-to-peer, reducing the adversarial nature and fostering a more supportive environment for athletes.
She also proposes the introduction of “mental health days” for athletes, allowing them to take breaks from media obligations without facing penalties, aligning with practices in other professions.
Global Impact of Osaka’s Mental Health Campaign in Sports
Osaka’s stance has garnered support from fellow athletes and mental health advocates worldwide. Her courage in prioritizing mental health over professional expectations has sparked important conversations about the well-being of athletes in high-pressure environments.