Joe Salisbury Steps Back from Tennis to Address Anxiety Issues

Joe Salisbury, a four-time men’s doubles Grand Slam champion, has announced he will take a break from professional tennis to address ongoing anxiety issues. The 33-year-old British player, who has previously held the title of doubles world number one, indicated he is unlikely to return before April 2024. His decision comes after experiencing severe anxiety symptoms, including a “feeling of dread” while on the Tour.

In an interview with the BBC, Salisbury described the physical effects of his anxiety, including heart palpitations and an unsettling sensation throughout his body. He stated, “You feel like your body is almost a bit shaky, almost like your whole body is vibrating a little bit.” This admission sheds light on the mental health challenges many athletes face, especially in high-pressure environments.

Salisbury, currently ranked 10th in the world, has had a successful season competing alongside fellow Briton Neal Skupski. The pair reached the finals at the French Open, U.S. Open, and most recently, the ATP Finals in Turin. Despite these achievements, Salisbury acknowledged that the emotional toll of competing has made it difficult for him to enjoy the sport.

“I feel like I’ve dealt with it well and managed to get myself into a good enough state on court to perform well in most of the matches that I have played,” he reflected. “But I think it’s taken an extra toll emotionally and mentally to do that.”

As part of his break from tennis, Salisbury plans to take a safari in Kenya and enjoy a skiing trip. He emphasized the importance of stepping back to focus on his well-being, saying, “It’s definitely a lot in the stomach – you feel sick to your stomach. I’ve been struggling to sleep and then, because of the feeling in the stomach, struggling to eat well.”

Salisbury’s announcement highlights a growing awareness of mental health in sports, prompting conversations about the pressures athletes face. As he takes time to recuperate, his absence will be felt on the court, particularly by his doubles partner Skupski, who plans to team up with American player Christian Harrison starting in January 2024.

This decision serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for support systems for athletes worldwide. As Salisbury prioritizes his health, the tennis community will be watching closely for his return.