"You have to take care of you first" - Stephens gives insight into her stance on mental health

Prior to the 2021 US Open, former champion Sloane Stephens had suffered a dip in form as she struggled on the WTA circuit. However, the American seems to have rediscovered her rhythm, and made it past the second round of the US Open, upsetting 21st seed Coco Gauff in the process.

In a recent Q&A session hosted by Mercedes Benz to kick off the US Open, Stephens stated she had developed a mantra that helped her whenever she felt off-centered right before a match. The 2017 champion revealed that she relies on simple words and hype music to help her get her mind back on track.

"I think, 'Okay, you can do this. Let's do this.' Get some music on, start singing, get the vibe back. That's kind of my mantra," said Stephens. "I always do a vibe check to make sure that I'm good."

The 28-year old disclosed that her go to music often includes Arianna Grande or Lil Jon, depending on her feelings at the moment. Furthermore, Stephens said she has learned to prioritize mental health, especially considering how the pandemic affecting the world over the last year and a half.

"You have to take care of you first," Stephens reflected. "We're in a state where everyone is just kind of trying to survive and make sure they can get the best out of themselves. Do your absolute best, go for it, and do what you can do."