Naomi Osaka withdraws from French Open

World number two female tennis player Naomi Osaka of Japan on Monday withdrew from the French Open over her stance on not speaking to the media due to mental health. Osaka, 23, had entered the second round. Osaka defeated Romania’s Patrica Maria, but she did not go to the press conference after that. For this, the organizers fined her $ 15,000 and also said that if she continues to do so, she will not be allowed to play in Grand Slam events.

“I think the best thing to do now for the good of the tournament, the other players, and for me, is to step back so that everyone can focus on the tennis going on in Paris,” Osaka said in a statement. I never wanted to be distracted and I accept that. My time was not ideal and my message could have been clear. More importantly, I will never despise mental health or use the word lightly.

Although Osaka apologized to reporters for not attending the press conference, she also said that it was completely her personal decision but since she is not a natural speaker, she is not comfortable in front of the media. Sometimes she gets nervous in front of the media and gets tensed about finding the best answer to a question.

Osaka said she is currently taking a break from tennis but did not say how long the break would be.
Osaka said, I will be away from the court for some time now. But when the time is right, I really want to work with Tour so that we can discuss ways to make things better for the players, the press and the fans. Hope you all stay healthy and safe as I love you all and see you again soon.