While a professional tennis player’s life often seems glamorous, it’s a far cry from the reality behind the scenes. The relentless schedules, constant travel, and intense performance pressure can take a toll on their mental health. Recent revelations from renowned players like Naomi Osaka and Andrey Rublev have shed light on these hidden struggles. Now, another professional has boldly shared his battles — ATP Pro Federico Gómez.

Currently standing at No. 135 in the ATP rankings, Federico Gómez left fans astounded with a deeply personal social media post. The Argentine player bravely disclosed his ongoing mental health crisis, revealing that he’s been contemplating quitting tennis and has been grappling with suicidal thoughts.

In his heartrending message, Gómez revealed, “The last six months have been the most challenging in my life as a human being. I’ve been battling thoughts of quitting tennis, questioning the worth of it all and even harbouring repeated suicidal thoughts.”

Despite his stellar year on the tennis court, Gómez admitted to an intense struggle off the court. He secured three Challenger titles in Milan, Trieste, and Guayaquil and achieved a career-high ranking. Yet, as his career soared, his mental health plummeted. Gómez confessed, “It may surprise many, but 2024 was the best year of my tennis career and simultaneously the worst year personally. This recent period has been no different.”

This stark contrast between professional triumphs and personal tribulations is a silent battle many athletes face. Another ATP player, Andrey Rublev, recently disclosed his mental health struggle.

Rublev, who clinched his first title of the 2025 season at the Qatar Open, has been open about his mental health challenges. Despite his court victories, including a title at the 2024 Madrid Open, Rublev confessed to battling mental health issues off the court. He described a perpetual state of confusion and feelings of purposelessness that left him trapped in a cycle of despair.

Attempting to find relief, Rublev sought help through antidepressants. It wasn’t until a conversation with former world No. 1 Marat Safin that things began to change. That discussion spurred a shift in perspective, setting him on a path towards a better mental state. Although he’s yet to find all the answers, achieving stability has been a crucial first step.

Opening up about mental health takes remarkable courage, especially for athletes under constant public scrutiny. The stories of Gómez and Rublev underscore the unseen struggles many players endure. Their candid confessions aren’t just for their healing, but they’re crucial to changing the narrative around mental health in tennis. Their bravery is a beacon, illuminating the path for others grappling with similar issues.