Novak Djokovic has expressed support for Federico Gomez, who publicly shared his struggles with suicidal thoughts. Gomez, ranked World No. 135, opened up about his mental health challenges while pursuing a tennis career. His message aims to encourage others to share their difficulties, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being. Support has also been extended by Boris Becker and Paula Badosa.
Novak Djokovic has publicly expressed his support for Federico Gomez, an Argentine tennis player, in light of Gomez’s recent revelation regarding his struggle with suicidal thoughts. The esteemed 24-time Grand Slam champion conveyed his encouragement through an Instagram post, stating, “Strength friend. There is always light at the end of the tunnel.”
Federico Gomez, currently ranked World No. 135, has achieved recent success, including winning his first title on the ATP Challenger Tour in 2024. However, he has revealed that he battled with mental health issues and felt compelled to work as a coach for several years to sustain himself.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Gomez shared his overwhelming struggles: “Living with thoughts of quitting tennis completely… even on repeated occasions suicidal thoughts of not wanting to live anymore.” He described the heaviness of sharing his feelings, stating, “It is very hard for me to write all this without crying my eyes out.”
Gomez clarified that his intention in sharing his struggles was not to seek attention but rather to achieve personal relief and encourage others to voice their challenges. He expressed his desire to reclaim his joy and find emotional well-being, affirming, “It’s okay not to be okay.”
Alongside Djokovic, other notable figures such as Boris Becker and Paula Badosa have also reached out to support Gomez during this difficult time.
In conclusion, Novak Djokovic’s empathetic message to Federico Gomez highlights the importance of mental health awareness in sports. Gomez’s courageous disclosure of his personal battles serves as a reminder that it is vital to address mental health openly and seek support. The collective backing from the tennis community demonstrates a growing recognition of mental health challenges faced by athletes, fostering an environment of understanding and compassion.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
