"This year, I am in a different state for sure" - Naomi Osaka reflects on withdrawing from last year's French Open

Although it took some time, Naomi Osaka, along with other young athletes like gymnast Simone Biles and snowboarder Chloe Kim, have begun breaking down the stigma around discussing mental health in the world of professional sports.

Osaka famously made headlines last year when she withdrew from the French Open to focus on her mental wellness. Now, the four-time Grand Slam singles champion is partnering with Modern Health, a mental health platform, to continue to destigmatize mental illness—especially among younger generations and underrepresented populations.

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The Japanese superstar will serve as the chief community health advocate of Modern Health’s community impact program, which will provide marginalized communities with access to resources and mental health care.

"I hope by working together we can help others join the conversation and also offer clinically backed resources, because too often people want the help of a professional and just don't know how to find it," said Osaka in an interview with BAZAAR.com.

The four-time Grand Slam champion has had a difficult relationship with mental health care, but has begun taking steps like meditation and therapy in her healing journey.

"Growing up, I kept quiet about my feelings and, in particular, about times when I felt anxious or just not myself," revealed the former World No.1. "I do think even though mental health is a topic we are starting to be more open about, for some people, there is still a stigma attached.

"After speaking up, my view on expressing the need for a break or space or help really changed. Speaking up and being really honest with everyone has allowed me such freedom and a sense of relief, and the outpouring from others about their own struggles made me feel less alone.

"I'm also trying to be more reflective every day and make sure I take note of what I've achieved or what I'm grateful for."

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The tennis star is in a very different headspace than the one she was in when she left the French Open last summer, but she still sees the moment as a turning point for herself.

"I think all of us athletes can relate to feeling pressure, not only from the outside world, but the pressure we also place on ourselves," Osaka says. "As an athlete, strength is key to how you are perceived, so for me admitting I wasn't always okay was a big step. The good thing is that I learned after speaking up that not only was I not alone, but admitting I needed a break meant I was not weak. In fact, it takes more strength to speak up than to stay quiet."

Today, she is healing, she is less afraid to confront her own anxieties, and she feels empowered by how the world has reacted to her openness.

"This year, I am in a different state for sure. While I may not always feel 100 percent, I am able to voice feelings," she added.