PARIS — As Naomi Osaka prepares to compete on the red clay courts of Roland Garros during the upcoming Paris Olympics, her participation symbolizes a significant milestone in her professional journey.
For Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, this event marks her return to the sport after taking time off to focus on mental health and motherhood.
Joining Osaka on the Olympic stage are renowned athletes Simone Biles and Sha’Carri Richardson. These trailblazing Black women are not only at the pinnacle of their sports but have also been outspoken about mental health and personal challenges. Both Osaka and Biles stepped back from competition to prioritize their well-being, while Richardson made her comeback following a controversial suspension.
Their stories interweave, presenting a powerful narrative of resilience and vulnerability for viewers. “We were born the same way as everyone else. I wasn’t born holding a racket. We’re humans first, and we’re athletes as a profession,” Osaka emphasized recently.
This perspective is crucial, especially for Black female athletes, as they often navigate the dual challenges of racism and sexism. Elevating these voices is essential for reshaping societal perceptions, according to experts in sports and race.
Biles previously withdrew from competition at the Tokyo Olympics, citing overwhelming pressure. Upon her return this year, she showcased her dominant skills, winning the individual all-around title at the gymnastics world championships.
The journeys of Osaka, Biles, and Richardson illustrate a natural leadership among Black women, who often shoulder the additional responsibility of representing broader societal issues. They exemplify the idea that it’s acceptable to pause and prioritize mental health amidst the demands of sports.
Richardson, who faced significant public scrutiny after a positive drug test in 2021, is now positioned for a remarkable comeback. After showcasing exceptional performance, she emerged as a favorite to excel in the 100 meters at the Olympics.
As Biles, Osaka, and Richardson reclaim their spaces in sports, they inspire women everywhere to prioritize self-care, asserting that to show up strong for others, one must first prioritize themselves.
