WTA ready to talk to Osaka about its boycott of the press

Naomi osaka He is one of the strongest personalities on the circuit. Active in the fight for social and equality causes, she now also aims to defend mental health in tennis. Upon arrival in Paris to contest this edition of Roland Garros (May 30 to June 13), Osaka explained on social media that he would not hold press conferences throughout the tournament for mental health reasons: “I have often thought that people have no consideration for the mental health of athletes. “.

This situation could lead to a fine from the tournament organizers, a tense situation to which the WTA circuit intends to put a solution. “Mental health is of the utmost importance to the WTA and indeed to every person. We have a team of professionals and a support system that ensure the health and mental and emotional well-being of our athletes. WTA welcomes dialogue with Naomi (and all players) to discuss possible approaches that can help an athlete manage any mental health concerns, “the WTA said in an official statement last Friday.

However, the women's tennis body ultimately recalled that players have certain obligations to fans and the media: “Professional athletes have a responsibility to their sport and their fans to speak to the media that surround their competition, giving them the opportunity to share their perspective and tell their story. “The reactions have not been long in coming, with tones very critical towards Osaka's attitude (like that of number 1, Ashleigh Barty) and others of approval (ex-athletes like Nico Rosberg). The debate is served.