"I respect her for coming out and talking about it" - Roddick on Osaka opening up about mental health struggles

Former World No. 1 Andy Roddick says a lot of people have pent-up issues and he respects Naomi Osaka for coming out and publicly opening up about her mental health struggles.

Due to Osaka's bravery, there is now a much bigger focus on athletes' mental health and Roddick was quick to give credit to the two-time US Open champion.

"I think a lot of people are going through a lot of things and I respect Naomi for kind of coming out and talking about it," Roddick said on the Kasich and Klepper podcast.

Read also

Serena Williams' next tournament confirmed as US Open preparation begins

Osaka started this season in Australia but has played only six tournaments this year. The Japanese superstar hasn't played much over the last three months due to an Achilles injury. In March, Osaka showed glimpses of her old self as she reached the Miami final before losing to Iga Swiatek.

"I think she took a bunch of time off last year and I just don't think she's gotten started again," Roddick said. "You know, in this game you need reps, you need to be able to play tournaments and you can practice as much as you want.

"I am sure there was a lot of prep for primary debates but until you actually get on that stage, it's not the same thing right? You kind of have to find a little bit of a rhythm."

Read also

Djokovic hints at US Open participation in cryptic social media chat with Kyrgios

Furthermore, Roddick described Osaka as a "very bright young woman" and he thinks the four-time Grand Slam champion is still one of the most exciting talents in the game.

"Naomi is a very bright young woman," added Roddick. "She said publicly she has some regrets about what happened at the French Open last year where she wrote an Instagram post kind of saying it before she actually talked to the tournament directors.

"I think agency probably has a little bit to do with that but she is obviously one of the really exciting prospects."