World No. 1 Novak Djokovic won his opening-round match at the French Open 2021 with ease. After the match, he spoke on various issues and the one topic that drew attention was the situation surrounding Japanese star Naomi Osaka. The 23-year-old had decided to avoid the post-match press conference during the entire tournament.

She took such a decision because she was dealing with mental health struggles. Her decision drew a lot of negative responses and a day after winning her opening round match, she decided to withdraw from the French Open 2021. Djokovic voiced his opinion and lent his support to her.

The World No. 1 stated, “Naomi, she’s very young and she grew up obviously with social media and the ability to speak out through her channels.

“Look, I can understand her very well, and I empathize with her because I was on the wrong edge of the sword in my career many times with media I know how it feels.”

Novak Djokovic could relate to Naomi Osaka

The Serbian empathized with the young Japanese as he remembered going through rough phases during his early days on the Tour. The use of social media is at large and it can have its negative effects too. At the end of the day, players are human too, and can go through different thought processes.

Naomi Osaka success extends off the court too

— Christopher Clarey (@christophclarey) June 2, 2021