Naomi Osaka has highlighted the ongoing stigma surrounding mental health, emphasizing that many individuals still feel ashamed or embarrassed to discuss their struggles. In response, she has been open about her own challenges, hoping to encourage others to seek help. Since revealing her battles with anxiety and depression during the 2021 French Open, the four-time Grand Slam champion has consistently updated her fans on her mental well-being and has emerged as a prominent advocate for mental health awareness among athletes.
In a recent development, Maybelline New York named Osaka as their first-ever Brave Together global ambassador. This initiative aims to foster conversations about mental health and encourage more individuals to share their experiences.
“It’s okay to not be okay,” Osaka stated in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar. “Historically, there has been a lot of shame and embarrassment surrounding these issues, but there shouldn’t be. We all face challenges, and it’s important to talk about them and support one another.”
Osaka, a former world No. 1, has been candid about her mental health journey, particularly during and after her pregnancy. “I truly believe that discussing mental health and being transparent is crucial for changing the culture surrounding it. For too long, it felt like a taboo subject, but the more we talk about it, the more we recognize how many people are struggling,” she added.
Looking ahead, the 27-year-old tennis star is set to begin her 2025 season at the WTA 250 tournament in Auckland, which starts on December 30. Osaka previously competed in Auckland in 2017, reaching the quarterfinals.
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