Which tennis player has depression?

Ons Jabeur Opens Up About Mental Health Struggles

Ons Jabeur, the Tunisian tennis star known for her dynamic play and infectious energy on court, has revealed a more personal battle—one that isn’t visible in the scorelines or match stats. In a candid moment following a taxing stretch on tour, Jabeur opened up about her experience with depression, shedding light on the emotional toll that professional tennis can take.

For years, Jabeur has been a fan favorite, admired not just for her skills but for her resilience and warmth. Yet behind the smiles and powerful groundstrokes, she’s faced moments of deep struggle. The relentless schedule—weeks spent traveling across continents, playing high-pressure matches with little downtime—eventually took its toll. "It's not just about winning or losing," she said. "It's about surviving the grind, day after day."

Her experience has led her to advocate for change. Jabeur has called on tennis authorities to reconsider the structure of Masters 1000 tournaments, particularly those stretched over two weeks. Unlike Grand Slams, which have a built-in break between rounds, these events often demand multiple matches in quick succession, increasing both physical and mental strain.

"We’re human," Jabeur emphasized. "We need time to recover, to breathe, to be with our people." Her voice joins a growing chorus of athletes pushing for better player welfare, challenging the sport to evolve beyond tradition and prioritize well-being.

Jabeur’s honesty is a reminder that even those at the top face invisible battles. By speaking out, she’s not just fighting for herself—but for the future of the game. And in doing so, she’s showing strength far beyond the baseline.