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Competitors at Flushing Meadows will have access to the
tournament's "comprehensive medical services program," which
will include access to mental health providers and "quiet rooms"
on site, the USTA said in a written statement.
"The issue of mental health awareness has been brought to the
forefront over the course of the global pandemic, as many
individuals, players included, have struggled with the stresses
and emotions that have come as a result of COVID-19," said U.S.
Open Tournament Director Stacey Allaster.
The year's final major unfolds as mental health in sports has
become a hot topic.
World No. 2 Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open in May
following a dispute with tournament organizers over mandatory
media appearances, which she said placed undue pressure on
players. She later disclosed she had suffered from bouts of
depression for years.
French Open tournament organizers conceded later that they could
do better addressing mental health of the athletes.
Osaka is expected to play at the U.S. Open.
The issue was again front and center at the Tokyo Olympics, when
four-time gold medal-winning gymnast Simone Biles dropped out of
several events, citing the need to focus on her mental health,
drawing worldwide support.
Brian Hainline, first vice president of the USTA and a professor
of neurology at Indiana University and New York University, said
he hoped the program would increase accessibility to mental
health support.
"Our goal is to make mental health services as readily available
to athletes as services for a sprained ankle - and with no
stigma attached," said Hainline. "We will provide an environment
that fosters wellness."
(Reporting by Amy Tennery; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
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