The Australian tennis player opens up about his struggles and the impact of Andy Murray’s support
Nick Kyrgios, the Australian tennis player, has spoken about his mental health struggles and expressed his gratitude to fellow player Andy Murray for his support. Kyrgios revealed that he had contemplated suicide and spent time in a psychiatric hospital after a defeat at Wimbledon in 2019. He also shared that Murray had noticed self-harm marks on his arm and had tried to offer advice. Despite initially being resistant, Kyrgios now acknowledges the impact of Murray’s concern and support.
A Lifeline from Andy Murray
Kyrgios recounted an incident where Murray had noticed the marks on his arm during a practice session. Murray inquired about them, leading Kyrgios to open up about his struggles. Murray then alerted Kyrgios’ manager, John Morris, about what he had seen. The Australian player expressed his gratitude to Murray, acknowledging that the British tennis champion had always been a staunch supporter and had taken him under his wing early in his career.
A Journey of Recovery
In a heartfelt Instagram post in February 2022, Kyrgios shared details of his mental health struggles, including suicidal thoughts and difficulty getting out of bed in 2019. He also pointed out the self-harm marks on his arm in a photo from the Australian Open. However, Kyrgios stated that he is currently in a much better place mentally. The tennis player’s openness about his own experiences has allowed him to become a beacon for others who are struggling with their mental health.
The Power of Relatability
Kyrgios emphasized that the most powerful aspect of his career now is being able to help others with their mental health issues. He revealed that people often reach out to him when they feel overwhelmed and are tempted to turn to destructive coping mechanisms. By sharing his own struggles, Kyrgios has become relatable to those in need, offering them a lifeline and a source of support. He considers this impact on others as the most significant achievement in his career.
Conclusion:
Nick Kyrgios’ candid revelation about his mental health struggles and his gratitude towards Andy Murray for his support shines a light on the importance of mental health in professional sports. Kyrgios’ journey of recovery and his willingness to be open about his experiences have allowed him to become a role model for others facing similar challenges. As he continues to excel on the tennis court, Kyrgios also recognizes the power he holds in helping others navigate their own mental health struggles. Through his story, he offers hope and inspiration to those in need.
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