Tennis star Naomi Osaka reveals athletes are taught to 'Win at All Costs' at expense of more important things

 

Tennis champion, Naomi Osaka believes it's time for athletes to be defined by things beyond just their athletic ability. 

The 24-year-old was featured on the latest cover of Dazed magazine and opened up about why she chose to be vocal about racial injustice and mental health.

"I think as high-level athletes, we are accustomed to being trained to win at all costs, but actually there are more important things in life, and it doesn't define who we are as people," she told the outlet for its Summer 2022 cover story. 

"It's a big change, but also quite subtle at the same time." 

Osaka made headlines last year when she was fined $15,000 for not participating in post-match interviews at the French Open.

She then voluntarily withdrew from the Grand Slam tournament, citing her need to prioritize her mental health and emotional wellbeing. She said the moment helped her realize the immense pressure athletes face.

(Story from People.com)