Sania Mirza Talks about Mental Health

Sania Mirza’s talk about mental health came into focus after the former Indian tennis star spoke openly about her struggles. She said athletes are often treated like machines, even though they are humans with real emotions.

Former tennis champion Sania Mirza said the idea that athletes are robots is completely wrong. She explained that players experience pressure, stress, and emotional challenges just like everyone else.

The former world number one shared these views during a podcast last month. She explained that success in sports does not protect athletes from mental stress. In the past, people avoided this topic and treated it as taboo.

Read Also: Sania Mirza Says Farah Khan Supported Her in Tough Times

Mental health discussions are necessary, Mirza said. She admitted that she started talking about her own struggles quite late. Earlier, proper awareness about mental well-being did not exist.

According to Mirza, open conversations about mental health began only in the last eight to ten years. Before that, society linked mental health issues with shame and embarrassment. That attitude, she added, is slowly changing.

While discussing Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues, Mirza praised her for admitting to anxiety during a semi-final match. Such honesty, she said, encourages other athletes to speak up.

Mirza also highlighted how an athlete’s life looks mechanical from the outside. In reality, players face personal and professional struggles. Showing mental weakness is difficult, but acceptance leads to awareness and healing.

Sharing her own experience, Mirza revealed that she went through different phases of depression. Problems outside the tennis court also affected her deeply. She later chose to speak openly to help others feel less alone.

Sania Mirza retired from professional tennis in February 2023. She now works as a sports mentor, business figure, and media personality. Through her tennis academy, she continues to train young players.

In conclusion, Sania Mirza’s mental health highlights the need for empathy and open conversations, reminding the world that athletes are humans, not robots.