Dear Fans,
As I prepare for my upcoming match against Aryna Sabalenka at the US Open, I wanted to take a moment to share something deeply personal.
For those who have followed my journey, you may know that my path hasn’t always been smooth.
Recently, I’ve been open about my struggles with depression, and it’s been a challenging chapter in my life.
Mental health is often overlooked in the world of sports, and I believe it’s crucial to bring more awareness to this issue. Depression can be isolating, and even those who seem strong can be fighting battles that are invisible to others.
My struggles have impacted my performance and my personal life, but they’ve also taught me a lot about resilience and the importance of seeking support.
Competing at a high level requires not just physical strength but also mental fortitude.
I want to use this platform to encourage anyone facing similar challenges to seek help and to be kind to themselves.
It’s okay to admit when things aren’t okay, and it’s okay to take steps towards healing.
I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from my team, family, and you, my fans. Your encouragement gives me strength, and I hope that by sharing my journey, I can contribute to a more open conversation about mental health in sports and beyond.
Thank you for standing by me. I’m ready to give my best on the court, and I hope my story can inspire others to keep fighting.
With gratitude,
Jessica Pegula