Naomi Osaka hit the headlines after announcing that she will not participate in any press conference during Roland Garros citing mental health. That attracted a lot of criticism since it seems that the Japanese sensation doesn’t want to face the hard questions like her colleagues.
Indeed, Naomi Osaka had exceptional performances and results when playing on hard courts, while it is well known that she struggles when performing on clay courts. Therefore, she probably expected to face “tough” questions during the press conference at the Roland Garros. For this reason, she decided not to take part in the pressers.
The WTA
The WTA commented that while they are very careful about mental health, professional athletes also have the responsibility to share their stories with the fans. The WTA released the following statement:
“Mental health is of the utmost importance to the WTA and, for that matter, every individual person. We have a team of professionals and a support system in place that look after our athletes’ mental and emotional health and well-being.
The WTA welcomes a dialogue with Naomi (and all players) to discuss possible approaches that can help support an athlete as they manage any concerns related to mental health, while also allowing us to deliver upon our responsibilities to the fans and public.
Professional athletes have a responsibility to their sport and their fans to speak to the media surrounding their competition, allowing them the opportunity to share their perspective and tell their story.”
The French Open
The French Tennis Federation (FFT) President Gilles Moretton wasn’t so soft with Naomi Osaka, saying that her media snub is a phenomenal error.
“It is a phenomenal error and it shows to what extent it is necessary to have strong governance. What is happening is not, in my opinion, acceptable. It is tennis we want to promote.
As the tournament progresses, we will see how she behaves. I don’t know what her attitude will be in the coming days, but it doesn’t send a very positive message,” he commented.
Naomi Osaka received a rather favorable draw at the French Open.
Naomi Osaka in 2021
Now ranked no.2, Naomi played her last match on the 12th of May when she lost to world no.29 Jessica Pegula 7-6(2) 6-2 in the 2nd round in Rome (draw).
This season Naomi owns a compiled 13-3 match record. Naomi conquered 1 title at the Australian Open.
