In 2020, Naomi Osaka, a professional tennis player, surpassed all other
female athletes in earnings. The 24-year-old Japanese national received
more hateful comments than any other tennis player the following year after
she declined to participate in mandated press conferences during the French
Open competition.
female athletes in earnings. The 24-year-old Japanese national received
more hateful comments than any other tennis player the following year after
she declined to participate in mandated press conferences during the French
Open competition.
The massive financial rewards Osaka received and the backlash she faced on
social media highlight the steep price many successful athletes must pay in
the digital age.
Top athletes may now use social media to control their image, grow a
devoted fan base, and secure big endorsement deals. However, because of
their close relationship with the public, they may also become the target
of direct abuse.
