Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam tennis champion, is known for her powerful game and unwavering commitment to mental health. In recent years, she has become an outspoken advocate for mental wellness, sharing her personal struggles with depression and anxiety.
Naomi Osaka and the Challenge of Online Negativity
Despite the positive steps she’s taken to prioritize her mental health, Osaka admits that social media remains a challenging space for her. “I would say that I’m not as involved in social media anymore,” she shared with PEOPLE, noting that online negativity started to affect her once her fame grew. “It was very negative when people started knowing of me more.”
While Osaka has distanced herself from social platforms, she hasn’t completely avoided them. Recently, she responded to an online troll who called her a “fluke.” In a post on Threads, she fired back, writing, “You couldn’t even touch one of my accomplishments with your fingernail.” This rare response shows her resolve to defend herself but also highlights how digital spaces can impact even the most successful athletes.
In addition to managing her online presence, Osaka has been vocal about the importance of mental health. “I think most people don’t know that mental health is as important as your physical health,” she told PEOPLE in an exclusive interview. Her openness has sparked important conversations within the tennis community, with many players now having access to mental health resources at tournaments.
Osaka credits therapy and mindfulness practices for helping her cope with the pressures of being in the spotlight. She also travels with a mental health coach to ensure she has the tools needed on and off the court. “I’m still learning,” she says, recognizing that self-care is an ongoing process.
As Osaka continues to balance her tennis career, motherhood, and advocacy, she hopes to inspire others. “I want [my daughter] to feel supported throughout her journey,” she said, adding that mental health should never carry shame or stigma.