In the world of sports, few topics have gained as much attention in recent years as mental health. Whether it’s athletes facing the pressures of competition or amateurs finding solace in recreational play, the conversation around mental well-being is becoming increasingly crucial. In a recent episode of the GoTennis! Podcast, Shaun Boyce and renowned tennis coach Justin Yeo delved into the mental health challenges faced by tennis players—from weekend warriors to the sport’s top professionals.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key insights from the episode, highlighting the difference between the mental health issues affecting casual players and those struggling at the professional level. You’ll also get a glimpse into how tennis can serve as a powerful tool for improving mental well-being, and why mental health should be a priority for players at all levels.
Tennis and Mental Health: A Positive Impact for Amateurs
For many, tennis isn’t just a sport; it’s a therapeutic outlet. Shaun and Justin kick off the discussion by pointing out how tennis has helped countless amateur players navigate the complexities of mental health, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdowns and restrictions keeping people indoors, tennis emerged as a perfect activity to combat the effects of isolation and stress.
As Justin explains, tennis offers a unique combination of physical activity, social interaction, and mental clarity. For the amateur player, tennis provides a mental escape—a chance to disconnect from the pressures of everyday life. It allows players to step onto the court, focus on their game, and let go of any frustrations. It’s an opportunity to reset the mind while getting exercise and enjoying time with friends.
“The game provides a space to clear your mind,” Shaun adds. “It’s good for your body, but it’s also great for mental health.”
Professional Tennis: The Hidden Mental Health Struggles
However, the mental health conversation shifts dramatically when it moves to the professional tennis scene. As Shaun and Justin dive deeper into the topic, they emphasize the immense pressure professional players face. From the grueling tournament schedule to the constant media attention, the professional tennis player is under stress that goes far beyond the physical demands of the game.
Justin highlights the challenges top players like Carlos Alcaraz have spoken out about. The young tennis prodigy recently opened up about the difficulties of maintaining a full schedule while balancing the mental strain of competing at the highest level.
“The mental demands are just as taxing as the physical ones,” Justin says, acknowledging the relentless travel, media commitments, and the need to perform consistently throughout the year. Players like Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios have publicly discussed their struggles with mental health, shining a light on an often-overlooked aspect of professional sports.
The Toll of an Overwhelming Schedule: Mental Health in Professional Tennis
In the past, the tennis tour was less packed, with players focusing mainly on Grand Slams and a handful of smaller tournaments. Today, the calendar is packed with events of varying levels, creating an exhausting grind for players. Justin explains that the introduction of a complex points system and an increasing number of tournaments means that players now face more pressure than ever to compete in every event, just to stay competitive.
“It’s not just about physical endurance,” Justin notes. “It’s about mental fortitude. And today’s players are feeling it more than ever.”
The pressure is compounded by the need to maintain peak performance through a constant stream of tournaments. This leads to an intense mental battle for athletes trying to balance their personal well-being with the demands of the sport.
Tennis: A Sanctuary for the Amateur Player
Despite the pressures at the professional level, tennis remains a sanctuary for amateur players seeking to improve their mental health. One of the unique advantages of the sport is the ability to disconnect from the always-connected world.
As Justin puts it,
“Tennis allows players to step into their own world. On the court, you’re focused, present, and free from distractions. It’s a mental reset every time you step onto the court.”
For casual players, the court is a place where they can leave behind the stresses of work, family, and daily responsibilities. Whether they’re playing for fitness, fun, or socializing with friends, tennis provides a moment of mental clarity and emotional release. It’s no surprise that many amateur players report feeling significantly better mentally after a good session on the court.
The Role of Coaches in Supporting Mental Health
Another crucial point discussed in the podcast is the role of coaches in supporting players’ mental health. Just as physical training is essential, mental coaching is equally important for players at all levels. Justin reflects on his experience working with players like Andy Roddick and Marty Fish, both of whom faced mental health struggles during their careers.
“Marty Fish was an incredibly talented player,” Justin shares. “But mentally, he struggled. Tennis is a game that requires as much mental strength as physical ability. And that’s where coaches come in—to help players find balance.”
Coaches are often the first line of defense when it comes to spotting mental health issues in players. It’s essential for coaches to recognize signs of burnout, anxiety, or stress and provide the support players need to manage these challenges.
A Shift in the Conversation: Mental Health in Tennis Needs to Be Discussed
Throughout the podcast, Justin emphasizes that mental health in tennis—especially at the professional level—needs to be discussed more openly. He suggests that the conversation is often clouded by confusion between the struggles of amateur and professional players.
“I’d love to see more people—especially at the professional level—talk openly about mental health,” Justin says. “It’s not just about physical health. It’s about being mentally tough, too.”
The mental well-being of professional players is just as important as their physical health. Unfortunately, this aspect is often overlooked, and many players suffer in silence due to the stigma around mental health.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, mental health in tennis is a critical issue that needs more attention, whether you’re an amateur player enjoying a casual game or a top-level professional facing the pressures of the tour. Tennis has a unique ability to improve mental health, providing players with a physical and emotional escape. However, the mental strain at the professional level can’t be ignored.
As Justin and Shaun discuss, it’s essential to continue the conversation around mental health in tennis, provide support for players, and break down the barriers to mental health discussions in sports. This podcast episode serves as a great starting point for a larger conversation that needs to take place in the tennis community and beyond.
