Aryna Sabalenka’s Message to Alexander Zverev
In a heartfelt message, Aryna Sabalenka encouraged fellow tennis player Alexander Zverev to confront his mental health challenges to prevent them from causing further damage to his well-being. Sabalenka, currently ranked as the top female player in the world, shared her own positive experiences with therapy, emphasizing the importance of seeking support as a means of coping with personal struggles.
Zverev’s Recent Struggles
Zverev, the third seed at Wimbledon, faced a surprising defeat against Arthur Rinderknech in a five-set match, marking his first early exit in a Grand Slam event since 2019. The 28-year-old German athlete has openly struggled with mental health issues following the Australian Open, expressing a sense of emptiness and a lack of joy both on and off the court.
“It’s hard to find happiness outside of tennis right now,”
he admitted, while reflecting on both personal and media-related challenges he has endured.
He disclosed feelings of isolation and noted,
“For the first time in my life, I think I might need therapy.”
This acknowledgment comes after Zverev has faced allegations of domestic abuse off the court.
Sabalenka’s Journey with Therapy
Following her second-round victory over Marie Bouzkova, Sabalenka highlighted her five-year journey with a therapist, which she paused in 2022. She remarked on the necessity of being open about one’s struggles, stating,
“It’s crucial to express what you’re going through. Holding it inside can destroy you. Alexander needs to confide in those who care about him; once he starts sharing his problems, he might start to find solutions.”
The Growing Acceptance of Mental Health Conversations
Similarly, Madison Keys, who recently celebrated her first Grand Slam win after 46 attempts, mentioned the growing acceptance of mental health conversations among players. She noted,
“The dialogue around therapy has become increasingly common, and many players are now comfortable admitting that they seek help.”
With professional mental health resources available every week at tournaments, Keys provided insight into how this support system has adequately assisted players in navigating the demanding nature of their careers.
Importance of Communication
Lastly, Sabalenka underscored the significance of communication with her support team, who she claimed provide a non-judgmental space for discussing her feelings and worries, advising Zverev to embrace similar openness as a path to healing.
