Naomi Osaka made waves when she announced her withdrawal from the French Open on Monday, and she's getting support from NBA stars as she continues to discuss her struggles with mental health issues.
Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry and Memphis Grizzlies youngster Ja Morant were both recently opponents in the play-in tournament, but they came together to show their support for Osaka:
You shouldnt ever have to make a decison like this-but so damn impressive taking the high road when the powers that be dont protect their own. major respect @naomiosaka https://t.co/OcRd95MqCn
— Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) May 31, 2021
we with you 🖤💪🏽 @naomiosaka https://t.co/JvkNMR1JJS
— Ja Morant (@JaMorant) May 31, 2021
Osaka initially revealed she was going to forego her media obligations because of their impact on her mental health. She was then fined $15,000 and threatened with expulsion from the French Open, with the heads of all four Grand Slam tournaments coming together to release a statement about the situation.
FFT president Gilles Moretton made a statement Monday on Osaka and said her withdrawal is “unfortunate” while also welcoming her back to the French Open next year. Ironically enough, he left without taking questions from the media. Perhaps he'll be fined?
Discussions about athletes' mental health have been coming to the forefront more and more in recent years. Kevin Love and DeMar DeRozan have been very outspoken about their own issues as NBA stars, so Curry and Morant surely know a bit about this topic.
Good on them for showing solidarity with their fellow athlete and supporting Naomi Osaka.