Osaka and Biles: Pioneering Mental Health Advocacy in Sports

Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, is making significant strides in her tennis career after returning to the sport earlier this year. Her comeback follows a hiatus taken to prioritize her mental health and the birth of her daughter. Osaka emphasizes the importance of recognizing that athletes are not born into their sports, a sentiment echoed by Ketra Armstrong, a professor at the University of Michigan. Armstrong highlights the unique challenges faced by Black female athletes, who often navigate the dual pressures of racism and sexism, underscoring the need for their elevation in the sports narrative. Simone Biles, who withdrew from the all-around gymnastics competition at the Tokyo Games to focus on her well-being, has also made a triumphant return to international competition. At 27, Biles demonstrated her enduring dominance, reminiscent of her performance at the 2016 Olympics. Both athletes exemplify a growing recognition that it is acceptable to prioritize mental health, even amidst a lifetime of competitive success. Victoria Jackson, a sports historian, notes that the returns of Osaka and Biles are crucial for creating a supportive environment for women who share similar experiences. Their journeys challenge societal expectations and encourage broader cultural acceptance of vulnerability in sports. Shaneka Stanley, a senior HR consultant, reflects on the collective burden felt by many Black women, emphasizing the importance of self-care. As she prepares for the 100 meters, having recently won the U.S. track trials, Stanley hopes to inspire women globally to prioritize their well-being.