Kei Nishikori, notable Japanese Professional Tennis player, reportedly struggled with the decision to continue competing. While the specific reasons remain confidential, this declaration echoes a statewide concern regarding the pressure that professional athletes face daily. With ongoing discussions around mental health awareness in sports, this announcement ignites the conversation further about how to better protect and support the wellbeing of athletes.

The mental health of athletes has been a growing concern in Japan, especially after recent high-profile incidents involving Japanese athletes, such as the withdrawal of Japanese tennis player, Naomi Osaka, from the French Open, citing mental health reasons. Many in Japan look up to these athletes not just for their skill, but for how they navigate pressures and represent the nation on global platforms.

Mental health awareness in sports is gaining traction in the US and Europe. Many professional athletes, including world-renowned gymnast Simone Biles, have opened up about their struggles. Their candid conversations have resulted in increased support systems and policies in and outside of their respective sports.