Tennis: ATP pairs up with Sporting Chance and Headspace to help players with mental health

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) has paired up with Sporting Chance and Headspace to help players and its staff deal with mental health problems and health issues during the times of coronavirus. 

This tennis season had come to halt since March due to the coronavirus pandemic and will be set to remain suspended till July. Due to the shutdown, players at the lower level have faced difficulties as they solely depended on tournament winnings of the chance to earn a living. The uncertainty over the resumption of the sport has left many players anxious. 

ATP chairman Andrea Gaudenzi released a statement on the website which read: "Being mentally strong is just as important as physical strength in tennis and looking after the mental health of our players and staff is a key priority for us." 

"Everyone has been adapting to periods of self-isolation and decreased physical activity during the pandemic, but this can have a particularly detrimental effect on professional athletes who are used to particular training structure and playing day in day out."

Sporting Chance was founded by former England and Arsenal captain Tony Adams which helps with emotional welfare and addictive disorders, it also gives players access to therapists experienced in working with elite athletes. He said: "The challenges that all sports and sports professionals are experiencing in the light of this pandemic will be affecting all of us in different ways."

"Holding out our hand to those in need at this time is important to me and working with organisations like the ATP is a pleasure – well done Tennis!"

The other partner Headspace will provide free subscriptions to ATP players and employees, giving them access to all 1200+ hours of meditation and mindfulness content.

(With inputs from agency)