Naomi Osaka had already won four Grand Slam titles by the age of 23, establishing herself as one of the biggest stars in women’s tennis. Yet, in May 2021, the Japanese champion made a decision that shocked the sporting world: she withdrew from the French Open to protect her mental health.
Her departure transformed a disagreement over media obligations into a global conversation about depression, anxiety and the pressures professional athletes face beyond the court.
The French Open Controversy Begins
On Sunday, May 30, 2021, Osaka defeated Patricia Maria Tig in the first round of the French Open at Roland Garros. However, she subsequently declined to attend her post-match press conference, following her earlier announcement that she would not participate in media conferences during the tournament.
Osaka explained that repeated questioning, particularly after defeats, could negatively affect players’ mental well-being and create unnecessary self-doubt.
Tournament officials responded by fining her $15,000 for skipping the press conference. The four Grand Slam tournaments subsequently issued a joint statement warning that continued violations could result in further penalties, including potential disqualification.
What initially appeared to be a dispute over media responsibilities quickly developed into a much larger issue.
A Champion Reveals Her Private Struggles
Four days before her opening match, Osaka had announced her intention to avoid press conferences, explaining that she wanted to protect her mental health.
At 23, she was the reigning US Open and Australian Open champion, ranked world No. 2 and already a four-time Grand Slam winner. Despite her extraordinary achievements, she revealed that life in the spotlight had brought significant emotional challenges.
In announcing her withdrawal, Osaka disclosed that she had experienced long periods of depression since winning the 2018 US Open.
She also explained that public speaking was particularly difficult for her, describing the intense anxiety she experienced before addressing the international media.
During the French Open, she felt vulnerable and anxious, believing that avoiding press conferences was necessary for her well-being.
Osaka apologised to journalists she might have offended, acknowledging that her timing was not ideal and that she could have communicated her position more clearly. However, she stressed that she would never trivialise mental health.
The Pressure That Followed Her First Grand Slam
Osaka’s struggles could be traced back to September 2018, when she defeated Serena Williams in a dramatic and controversial US Open final to claim her first major championship.
Although the victory marked a defining moment in her career, it also introduced her to an unprecedented level of attention and scrutiny.
As her profile continued to grow, so did the expectations surrounding her performances and public appearances.
The French Open withdrawal became a turning point, forcing tennis authorities, journalists and supporters to reconsider the balance between professional obligations and personal well-being.
Tournament president Gilles Moretton expressed sadness over her departure and wished her a speedy recovery.
Support From Sporting and Global Icons
Osaka received messages of support from prominent figures, including Serena Williams, Michelle Obama, Stephen Curry, Michael Phelps and Novak Djokovic. Tennis legend Martina Navratilova also expressed her support.
Osaka subsequently sat out Wimbledon, continuing to prioritise her well-being as she navigated the challenges surrounding her mental health.
In a later essay for TIME magazine, she explained that her intention had been to practise self-care. She also expressed disappointment that tournament officials and sections of the media appeared unwilling to accept her explanation.
Her message called for meaningful changes in how athletes are treated and how their mental health concerns are addressed.
A Legacy Beyond Tennis
Osaka’s decision remains an important moment in the conversation about athlete welfare.
The debate was never simply about whether players should attend press conferences. It raised deeper questions about the expectations placed on sporting stars and the support available when those demands become overwhelming.
Osaka did not abandon tennis because she lacked ambition. She stepped away because protecting her mental health had become necessary.
Her story demonstrated that even champions who achieve extraordinary success can struggle privately, reminding the sporting world that athletes deserve understanding as well as accountability.