Dylan McCoy, 21, senior, Rutgers University, New Brunswick N.J.

McCoy is the associate sports editor at The Daily Targum, Rutgers University’s student newspaper, and also assistant sports director at WRSU, the university’s student-led radio station. 

 I believe that the organizers of the French Open were wrong to fine Naomi Osaka for not speaking to the press after her match. Athletes should have a choice in their post-game media duties. Their job is not to answer questions from reporters, their job is to excel at their sport.

Many people in society deal with social anxieties and can control who they interact with. Fans expect players to forgo this privilege, and in today’s age of all-access coverage, they expect constant quotes and interaction from their favorite athletes. This has led to one of tennis’ biggest stars withdrawing from the tournament.

Osaka would have most likely advanced deep into the tournament, but she chose to deal with her mental health struggles over playing for people that would consistently fine her and might have expelled her down the line. While Osaka and others should have a choice based on morality, the sports organizations need to realize that the athletes have power, and they can choose to use it in ways they see fit, like not playing.

This debate also touches on the idea of mental health not being talked about in major sports. Kevin Love, a professional basketball player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, made waves last year with his piece “To Anybody Going Through It,” where he described feelings of depression and being burnt out, which a lot of people can relate to. I think fans (myself included) see these athletes making millions and forget that they are regular people dealing with feelings and emotions that we don’t see on the court. This was the first time a lot of people truly saw the mental trials and tribulations that athletes go through. 

Players like Osaka who make tough choices will allow other players to be more open and will help leagues and teams take the necessary steps to provide resources for their players various mental health needs. If athletes feel comfortable and in a good head space, the sports we get will be at their purest and their best.