"Athletes are still humans" - Osaka hopes her stance on mental health helped change perspectives on athletes

Following her open admission about her struggles with mental health and the controversy surrounding it, Naomi Osaka revealed she hoped her actions have changed the way people view professional athletes.

"I hope I was able to help some people and for them to see that even athletes are still humans like the rest of us. And we all are dealing with something in our lives," stated Osaka.

The defending US Open champion added that because we live in a world where people are so quick to speak or comment, her silence during her hiatus made several people uncomfortable.

"Growing up, being labeled]'the quiet one' puts you in a box and, even worse, makes you stand out when all you want is to blend in," added Osaka. "But now I try to embrace and own it."

However, the four-time Grand Slam champion revealed that the whole experience has been empowering, allowing her to see that there's more to life than just playing tennis at the highest level.

"Now more than ever I see that you can be more than just one thing," stated the 23-year old. "More than just someone who plays tennis," she said.