‘Naomi Osaka doesn’t have to hit another tennis ball the rest of her life, if that makes her happy,’ says Mardy Fish

‘Naomi Osaka doesn’t have to hit another tennis ball the rest of her life, if that makes her happy,’ says Mardy Fish

Naomi Osaka

After young Canadian Leylah Fernandez stunned World No.3 Naomi Osaka in the third round of the 2021 US Open, the Japanese player announced to the media that she will be taking an indefinite break from tennis.

The four-time Grand Slam champion even appeared frustrated during her match against Fernandez and then was captured teary-eyed at the press conference in New York.

“Recently, when I win, I don’t feel happy. I feel more like relief. And then when I lose, I feel very sad, and I don’t think that’s normal,” Osaka told the reporters.

Osaka has already been experiencing a turbulent year on the circuit, from the time she was confronted by the media at the mandatory press conference ahead of the French Open. The 23-year-old later opened up on how she has been hounded by anxiety and depression.

Former American ATP player, Mardy Fish was also a victim of anxiety and depression towards the end of his playing career, recently offered some kind words for the disturbed Japanese star.  Fish firmly believed that Osaka should first find peace in her daily activities, before she thinks about getting back to tennis.

“I would tell her, do whatever makes you happy. She doesn’t have to hit another tennis ball the rest of her life, and if that makes her happy, that’s what she should do,” the former World No.7 told New York Times.

“I think she would regret that, but it’s whatever makes her want to get up in the morning and be happy. And whatever she’s been doing for the last couple months, or however long it’s been, is not doing that for her right now. So hopefully she finds peace and comfort.”

Osaka needs to find ways to be happy again

Naomi Osaka
Naomi Osaka

Fish further added that off court activities have mounted Osaka’s problems and she should now only focus on finding a much better mental space.

“I think it’s really important to put yourself first and what you feel is important to you and what makes you happy, and hopefully tennis is in there for her. I think it is. I know she understands her place in history. But the stuff outside the court has now gotten to her more than just wins and losses, and it’s unfortunate, but it’s important for her to make sure she feels comfortable again and happy again.”

Also read: ‘Guys in the locker room are going the extra mile because there is no Roger and Rafa at the 2021 US Open,’ feels Frances Tiafoe