"I love her because she speaks out on social justice" - Billie Jean King praises Naomi Osaka

Although Naomi Osaka may have her detractors, she still has overwhelming support from those outside and within the tennis community, with one of her biggest fans being WTA tennis legend Billie Jean King.

In an interview with TMZ, the retired 12-time Grand Slam singles titlist stated that she adored Osaka, not just for her ability on the court but also for her impact off it. Osaka has seen her role as a social activist increase over the past year, with the Japanese superstar using her platform to bring attention to issues on social justice and mental health awareness.

"I love her because she speaks out on social justice and things that matter like mental health and black lives matter and everything," revealed King. "I love her."

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The retired American went on to applaud Osaka for opening up on her struggles with depression and speaking out on the effect of the media on the mental health of athletes. Furthermore, she admitted that the players in her era battled with the same issues, but no one was bold enough to speak up.

"But we actually did worry about it, we just didn’t talk about it," disclosed King. "The WTA, the Women’s Tennis Association does worry about it."

Following her early loss at the Tokyo Olympic Games, many people wondered if the World No.2 had lost a step after not playing for close to two months. However, King was quick to point out that this was far from accurate.

"She’s taking a break. She still has it," said King. "Are you kidding? She’s just getting started. She’s so young. No, she hasn’t lost a step. Not at all, no, no, no, no."