Why elite athletes get help—and why you risk losing your best people
Every summer, Wimbledon serves up its familiar traditions: strawberries and cream, polite applause, immaculate grass courts. But this year, the headlines weren’t only about tennis.
After a shock first-round defeat, German tennis star Alexander Zverev sat in front of the press and said the words most athletes never say:
“I go to sleep without motivation to get up the next day. I feel empty. I feel alone.”
He admitted he’d lost joy in almost everything, even winning. For the first time, he’s considering seeking professional help.
Listening to this on TalkSport, you could hear how even the presenters struggled with their own feelings. It was raw, honest, and a reminder that no amount of talent or success makes you immune to burnout.
Zverev isn’t alone.
Naomi Osaka stepped back from competition to protect her mental health. Simone Biles paused the Olympics to prioritise her wellbeing. Lando Norris opened up about self-doubt and depression in Formula
These aren’t isolated stories. They’re evidence that high performance doesn’t have to come at the cost of mental health—and that cultures can change.
Sport Is Catching Up—Fast
Wimbledon, like much of professional sport, is rethinking what it means to support people under pressure.
In recent years, tennis has invested heavily in mental health resources:
- On-site mental health professionals: Players can access help during tournaments without stigma.
- Remote support between events: No matter where athletes are, help is a call away.
- Education programmes: Especially for men, to normalise asking for help.
- Separating identity from performance: Encouraging players to see themselves as more than their results.
- Open dialogue: Novak Djokovic and others are leading conversations that would have been unthinkable a decade ago.
In short, elite sport has decided that well-being matters.
So Why Are So Many Companies Going Backwards?
While athletes are gaining more resources, many workplaces are quietly pulling back. Budgets for wellbeing programmes are being trimmed. Mental health training is getting postponed. The unspoken message?
“Get on with it.”
But people aren’t machines. They’re human beings with limits.
If sport can normalise rest, recovery, and open conversations, why can’t business?
Three Questions for Every Leader
If you’re a manager or leader, ask yourself:
- Would someone in my team feel safe admitting they were struggling like Zverev?
- Have we invested in training and resources to support mental health, or is it still lip service?
- Can I honestly say we value wellbeing as much as performance?
If you can’t answer “yes” to all three, it’s time to rethink what success really means in your organisation.
Because when pressure goes unchecked, you don’t just risk productivity—you risk losing your best people.
You Deserve Support, Too
If this resonates with you, you’re not alone. Whether you lead a team, run a business, or simply want to protect your own wellbeing, help is available.
I deliver accredited Mental Health First Aid training to equip leaders and teams with the skills to recognise the signs of burnout, initiate conversations, and guide individuals to the right support before it’s too late.
Because success shouldn’t cost you your health—or the health of the people you lead.
P.S.
If you’re ready to build a culture where wellbeing matters as much as performance, let’s talk. My next Mental Health First Aid course is now open for booking.
Mike Lawrence
Brain tumour survivor, award-winning consultant, and your AI-powered wellbeing ally
Mike Lawrence: Your Guide to Health & Wellbeing
I’m Mike Lawrence, a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve dedicated myself to a journey of self-improvement and helping others thrive. From heart-pounding skydives for charity to soul-enriching travels in Thailand, my experiences have shaped my approach to holistic health.
I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned from these adventures and the powerful audiobooks I devour. Let’s explore the paths to better mental and physical health together. Embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm and resilience, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey!
Feel free to email me at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. For more in-depth insights and inspiring stories, read my latest blogs here. Together, let’s create a healthier, happier future!
