Naomi Osaka Withdraws From the French Open 2021
Naomi Osaka stated she was pulling out of the French Open and shocked the tennis world. The Japanese player released a statement saying she “suffered long bouts of depression.”
Naomi Osaka stated she was pulling out of the French Open and shocked the tennis world. The Japanese player released a statement saying she “suffered long bouts of depression.” She will be taking some time out from the sport to focus on her wellbeing.
Osaka made this surprising decision ahead of her second-round clash with Ana Bogdan. But, the main reason would also be the backlash Osaka faced. It was because she decided to boycott all her media commitments in Paris. Osaka cited a lack of care for the mental health of athletes.
World Condemns Osaka’s Treatment
Before Osaka’s statement regarding her mental health issues, tennis circles widely criticised her. Many pundits suggested that she was avoiding the press to hide from her struggles on clay for the French Open. Moreover, the four grand slams also issued a joint statement threatening Osaka with disqualification if she continued to ignore the media.
After the world no. 2 tennis player opened up about her mental health struggles, many upset fans vented their anger about how she was hounded out of Paris.
According to David Zirin, a sports podcaster, “the treatment of Osaka by the Lords of Tennis has been shameful.” On the other hand, Dov Kleinman, a reporter, posted on Twitter, “This is a shameful situation for those forcing Osaka to withdrew from the French Open.”
FFT President Gilles Moretton Issues a Statement
A week before Osaka’s announcement, Gilles Moretton, the French Tennis Federation (FFT) president, lambasted Osaka for making a great mistake to boycott press conferences for the French Open. However, he recently issued a statement on her exit and left without taking any questions.
He stated, “The outcome of Naomi withdrawing from Roland Garros is unfortunate. We wish her the best and the quickest possible recovery, and we look forward to having Naomi in our tournament next year.”
“As all the Grand Slams, the WTA, the ATP, and the ITF, we remain very committed to all athletes’ wellbeing, and to continually improving every aspect of players’ experience in our tournament — including with the media, like we have always strived to do,” He further added.
Osaka’s exit might have disappointed many tennis fans and punters. But, there will still be many players to look forward to in the French Open. For one of the safest online betting sites, check us out at VOdds. We offer a bookmaker sign up bonus, and no risk matched betting, among others. Open an account with us now!
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