“Went to a psychologist twice,” Rafael Nadal dusts off ‘taboo’ inhibitions about mental health as he advocates therapy

Nadal recently made his comeback in the 2024 Brisbane International after a year-long gap due to his injury.

“Went to a psychologist twice,” Rafael Nadal dusts off ‘taboo’ inhibitions about mental health as he advocates therapy

Rafael Nadal (image via IMAGO)

In his recent interview with ‘The Objective’, Rafael Nadal talked about the importance of mental health. The Spaniard addressed the fact that it has been considered a taboo subject since time immemorial and that the misconception of the masses regarding mental health needs to change. 

Nadal revealed that he has had to go to a psychologist twice in his life for different problems and that it is very normal. 

YouTube video
I have never had any problem talking about it [mental health], I went to a psychologist twice in my life, at two different stages in my life for two different problems I had. If you have pain in your leg, you go to the doctor.
Nadal via La Sexta

He reiterated that mental health is just as important as physical health. Going to a psychologist might have been looked down upon in the past, but it is very common in the modern world. In fact, the 22-time Majors winner went to the extent of calling it the most important part of the body, and thus, having a healthy mind is of utmost necessity. 

FS Video
Maybe it has been a more taboo subject in the past, but I don't think about it this way, I perceive it as something normal and natural. It is just another part of the body, I would say it is the most important. 

Rafael Nadal gives surety of playing in the 2024 Indian Wells 

Nadal recently made his comeback in the 2024 Brisbane International after a year-long gap due to his injury. However, his comeback was short-lived as he suffered another muscle issue during his match against Jordan Thompson that did not allow him to take part in the Australian Open. 

Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal (Via Imago)

The Spaniard was supposed to return in the Doha Open but announced a few days ago that he will probably not participate in the tournament. However, he also confirmed his participation in the Indian Wells. 

Unfortunately, I am not ready to compete and I won’t be able to come to Doha where I really wanted to be and play again after that unforgettable win in 2014. I will focus on keep working to be ready for the exhibition in Las Vegas and the amazing Indian Wells tournament. 
Nadal via X

Nadal has won the Indian Wells three times. In fact, the last time he took part in the tournament back in 2022, he won the trophy. 

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