Well done Naomi

[Ostara212]

Naomi Osaka refusing to do press at grand slam

www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/tennis/article-9634579/Naomi-Osaka-faces-thrown-French-Open-continues-refuse-speak-media.html

I think this is really wise. Press, media, social media all contribute to a culture that isn't good for mental health IMHO. let athletes, singers, actors etc do their stuff without massive media obligations written in.

Ironically I suspect that the lady just wants to play tennis in peace, which is what the audience and fans want too.

A good stand from her.

Good for her. The press conferences don't suit everyone. Even Serena was crying recently wasn't she.

I agree. Surely it’s about the tennis not a press conference. Good on her.

I agree 👏🏼

I think that attending the press conferences is part of the contract that competitors sign up to, so refusing to attend them might have serious implications for her career. I support her choice 100%. I just hope it isn't going to result in her being penalised for wanting to avoid the toxicity of the media.

Completely agree.

Yes, the footage of players obviously emotionally distressed five minutes after losing a tournament serves no purpose other than titillation for the public. The players are interviewed at their most vulnerable and it's unfair and voyeuristic.

Ironically I suspect that the lady just wants to play tennis in peace, which is what the audience and fans want too

No, she wants to rake in over $40million with endorsements and doesn't want to be bothered chatting to the press for free. Shame on her for using mental health as an excuse.

Talking to the press is a key part of what she is paid for though. I am wary of people opting out of things they don't enjoy citing their mental health. I don't think it's helpful for understanding of mental health conditions, or for those who are suffering.

I think it is important that people speak up about their mental health without others questioning them.

Endorsing stuff is different from having media glare when you are vulnerable and emotionally exhausted after a match.

@Needanedittbuton

Ironically I suspect that the lady just wants to play tennis in peace, which is what the audience and fans want too

No, she wants to rake in over $40million with endorsements and doesn't want to be bothered chatting to the press for free. Shame on her for using mental health as an excuse.

Bit harsh there! Why should her successful career and all the endorsements/sponsors she attracts due to her talent mean that she has to endure intrusive press attention?

If part of the contract you enter in to by attending/ participating in these events is that you have a contractual obligation to take part in the press conference then the stance isn't one they will support. If the conferences are supposed to be voluntary it's a crap move.

@SD1978

If part of the contract you enter in to by attending/ participating in these events is that you have a contractual obligation to take part in the press conference then the stance isn't one they will support. If the conferences are supposed to be voluntary it's a crap move.

This is a slippery slope though

We are saying "you can be a fantastic athlete/actor/author etc but if you won't dance to the PR music, go away".

I think it's a great shame things have gone as far as they have and I think she's set a precedent for a world that is horribly lacking in respect for privacy and mental health.

@ValancyRedfern

Talking to the press is a key part of what she is paid for though. I am wary of people opting out of things they don't enjoy citing their mental health. I don't think it's helpful for understanding of mental health conditions, or for those who are suffering.

Sorry, I meant to quote this post.

Sorry SD1978.