The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) said it would welcome dialogue with world number two Naomi Osaka over her decision to boycott press conferences at this year’s French Open.
Japanese player Osaka cited the impact on players’ mental wellbeing for her decision, saying the nature of questions from journalists is like “kicking a person when they are down”.
While the 23-year-old has received some support, 13-times French Open champion Rafa Nadal and women’s world number one Ash Barty believe players have a duty to address the media.
Osaka’s decision has been slammed by the French Tennis Federation (FFT).
After American great Serena Williams, Osaka commands the highest profile of any female tennis player and her decision has left the WTA in an awkward position.
“Mental health is of the utmost importance to the WTA and for that matter, every individual person,” the organisation said in a statement on Friday.
“We have a team of professionals and a support system in place that look after our athletes’ mental and emotional health and well-being.
“The WTA welcomes a dialogue with Naomi (and all players) to discuss possible approaches that can help support an athlete as they manage any concerns related to mental health.”
However, it stressed that it also had responsibilities to the fans and public.
“Professional athletes have a responsibility to their sport and their fans to speak to the media surrounding their competition, allowing them the opportunity to share their perspective and tell their story,” it said.
Retired Formula One champion Nico Rosberg, former tennis player Zina Garrison and British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith have voiced their support to world number two Osaka.
But Australian Barty echoed the opinion of men’s world number one Novak Djokovic who says that post-match press conferences, while unpleasant, are part of the job.
Nadal said that without the media, tennis players would not enjoy the same profile. “I respect her, of course, as an athlete and her personality. I respect her decision,” Nadal told reporters.
