Ons Jabeur Takes Control of Her Schedule Amid Health Concerns

Former world number two Ons Jabeur has opened up about her struggles with depression, attributing her mental health challenges to the demanding schedule of professional tennis. After experiencing a particularly exhausting run on tour, Jabeur has decided to prioritize her well-being and take control of her commitments moving forward.

The intense demands of the men’s and women’s tennis circuits have drawn criticism, prompting several players, including Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu, Daria Kasatkina, Elina Svitolina, and Paula Badosa, to cut their seasons short. Jabeur herself took a break from competitive play in July 2023, emphasizing the need to focus on her health.

Concerns Over Packed Calendars

In an interview with Sky Sports, Jabeur expressed her frustration with the current tournament schedule. “The schedule is killing everyone,” she stated, advocating for a reduction in the number of tournaments. Specifically, she highlighted the back-to-back scheduling of the WTA 1000 events in Doha and Dubai. “I want to play there, but two WTA 1000 tournaments in a row? It’s too much,” she remarked.

Jabeur’s concerns reflect a broader sentiment within the tennis community, where many athletes are voicing their need for a more balanced approach to tournament schedules. The WTA has previously indicated that athlete welfare is a priority and has been open to player feedback through the players’ council and board representatives. The organization aims to improve the tournament structure for the 2024 season while also addressing compensation issues.

Jabeur, a three-time Grand Slam runner-up known for her upbeat personality, recognized the toll that the relentless schedule has taken on her mental health. “I’m done letting the schedule dictate what I should do and what I shouldn’t do,” she stated. “I suffered a lot, mentally more than physically. But my body was screaming for help for a long time.”

Taking a Stand for Mental Health

Reflecting on her experiences, Jabeur acknowledged that she may have been dealing with depression without fully realizing it. Despite being affectionately referred to as the “Minister of Happiness,” she admitted to feeling sadness for an extended period. “I’m putting myself first. That’s a huge step,” she emphasized.

As the tennis world grapples with these challenges, Jabeur’s candidness about her mental health journey serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing well-being in high-pressure environments. The ongoing discussions around the tournament calendar may lead to significant changes, benefiting not only Jabeur but also her fellow athletes.

The WTA has yet to respond to Jabeur’s specific comments regarding the tournament schedule, but the dialogue surrounding player welfare continues to evolve. As the 2024 season approaches, it remains to be seen how the governing body will address these pressing concerns.