Depression doesn’t discriminate, and even the most successful athletes have faced its challenges. Below is a look at 20 sportsmen who battled depression during their careers, demonstrating that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of fame or fortune.
1. Michael Phelps
The most decorated Olympian of all time, Michael Phelps, opened up about his struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. After the 2012 Olympics, he hit a low point, and it wasn’t until he sought therapy that he began to recover. His advocacy for mental health has inspired many.
2. Andrés Iniesta
Spanish football legend Andrés Iniesta suffered from depression after winning the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona in 2009. The pressure of the sport, combined with personal losses, led him to seek help and speak openly about his experience.
3. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Before becoming a household name in Hollywood, Dwayne Johnson faced a period of severe depression after injuries derailed his football career. He has since used his platform to encourage others to seek help and to destigmatize mental health issues.
4. Tyson Fury
British heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury has been vocal about his battle with depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts. After becoming the World Heavyweight Champion, Fury faced a mental health crisis but managed to return to the ring after receiving the support he needed.
5. Marcus Trescothick
Former England cricketer Marcus Trescothick left international cricket in 2006 due to severe anxiety and depression. He later wrote about his experiences in his autobiography, “Coming Back to Me,” which shed light on the mental toll of professional sports.
6. Ricky Hatton
Boxing champion Ricky Hatton has openly discussed his struggles with depression and substance abuse. Following his retirement from the ring, Hatton faced dark periods but turned his life around through therapy and support from loved ones.
7. Jonny Wilkinson
English rugby star Jonny Wilkinson, who famously led England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, battled depression throughout his career. His obsessive perfectionism contributed to anxiety, and he later credited mindfulness practices for his mental recovery.
8. Iain Thorpe
Australian swimmer Ian Thorpe, a five-time Olympic gold medalist, struggled with depression and self-doubt for years. Thorpe eventually sought help, using his experience to raise awareness of the importance of mental health.
9. Robin Lehner
Swedish ice hockey goaltender Robin Lehner has been candid about his battle with bipolar disorder, addiction, and depression. His bravery in discussing his challenges has made him a leading advocate for mental health awareness in sports.
10. Clarke Carlisle
Former English footballer Clarke Carlisle has faced multiple suicide attempts due to severe depression. Carlisle has since become an outspoken mental health advocate, sharing his experiences to encourage others to seek support.
11. Kevin Love
NBA star Kevin Love shocked the basketball world when he revealed his struggles with anxiety and depression in an article for The Players’ Tribune. Love has since become a major proponent of mental health awareness, sharing his story to destigmatize seeking help.
12. Aaron Rodgers
NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers has spoken about his experience with depression early in his career. He has emphasized the importance of reaching out for help and taking care of one’s mental health amidst the pressures of professional sports.
13. Andrew Flintoff
Former England cricket star Andrew Flintoff struggled with depression during his playing days, particularly after England’s Ashes defeat in 2006-2007. Flintoff has since become a mental health advocate, sharing his story to support others.
14. Michael Yardy
English cricketer Michael Yardy withdrew from the 2011 World Cup due to depression. Yardy’s openness about his mental health challenges raised awareness in the cricketing community about the importance of addressing mental well-being.
15. DeMar DeRozan
NBA player DeMar DeRozan has been open about his struggle with depression, stating that even professional athletes are not immune to emotional difficulties. His transparency has encouraged many young fans to seek support.
16. Ronaldo Nazário
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo faced periods of depression and anxiety throughout his career, often exacerbated by injuries and the pressure to perform. He has since spoken about the importance of psychological support in professional sports.
17. Justin Gimelstob
Former American tennis player Justin Gimelstob struggled with depression after his retirement, facing a tough transition from professional sports. He has since spoken about his journey to recovery, emphasizing the value of therapy.
18. Ben Gordon
Former NBA player Ben Gordon has discussed his battle with mental health, including severe bouts of depression. His openness about his struggles has shed light on the often hidden pressures athletes face.
19. Gary Speed
Welsh footballer and manager Gary Speed tragically took his own life in 2011. His death raised awareness about depression in professional sports, sparking conversations on how to better support athletes.
20. Mardy Fish
American tennis player Mardy Fish faced severe anxiety and depression, which forced him to withdraw from several competitions, including the 2012 US Open. Fish later opened up about his struggles and became a mental health advocate.
These athletes show that even the strongest and most successful individuals are not immune to mental health challenges. Their stories serve as reminders of the importance of recognizing depression, seeking help, and supporting each other. The journey to mental wellness is ongoing, but talking openly about these issues is a crucial step in the right direction.
