Novak Djokovic’s class act after tennis star suffered with ‘suicidal thoughts’

Novak Djokovic has reached out to fellow pro Federico Gomez after the Argentine admitted he was struggling with his mental health

Novak Djokovic has shown his true colours after offering support to Federico Gomez (Image: Getty)

In a world where sporting triumphs often overshadow personal struggles, Novak Djokovic has reminded us of the power of empathy. The Serbian tennis icon extended a heartfelt gesture of support to Argentine player Federico Gomez, who recently laid bare his battle with severe depression and suicidal thoughts.

The moment of solidarity unfolded at the Miami Masters 1000, where Djokovic trained with Gomez ahead of his match against Camilo Ugo Carabelli, offering not just a practice partner but a lifeline to a fellow athlete in distress. Gomez, 28, stunned the tennis world in early March with an emotional open letter on social media, describing the past six months as the “hardest” of his life, admitting to contemplating quitting tennis and grappling with thoughts of ending his life. “It’s hard for me to write this without crying,” he confessed, “but I think it’s the best decision I could have made to get this huge weight off my shoulders.”

Despite a career-best 2024 – highlighted by three Challenger titles in Milan, Trieste, and Guayaquil, and a peak ranking of 133 – the Buenos Aires native revealed a stark contrast between his professional success and behind-the-scenes turmoil. “2024 was undoubtedly the best year of my tennis career, but at the same time, the worst year on a personal level,” he wrote.

Djokovic, no stranger to the pressures of elite sport, expressed deep sympathy for Gomez. Speaking candidly at a press conference, he reflected on his own “dark moments” and pledged to support his counterpart. “We all have psychological and emotional struggles. I have been through them, and I sympathise a lot with him,” the 37-year-old said.

He also promised to be available for the Argentine at any time, adding: “I hope to have some more time to reflect on that with him tomorrow.”

Federico Gomez has opened up about his mental health struggles (Image: Getty)
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Gomez’s raw confession drew messages of encouragement from tennis legends like Boris Becker and Andy Murray. But Djokovic’s decision to train with him in Miami elevated this support into a tangible act of camaraderie.

For the 24-time Grand Slam champion, this gesture is more than a one-off. The Serb has long been vocal about the mental toll of professional tennis, a sport that demands relentless focus and resilience.

By choosing to connect with Gomez – both on the practice court and in his words – he reinforced a vital message: no one should suffer alone. “We didn’t have much time to talk today,” Djokovic said, “but I’ll be there for him whenever he needs me.”

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It’s a promise that carries weight from a player who has weathered his own storms, from injury setbacks to public scrutiny. Gomez, meanwhile, is fighting to reclaim the joy that once defined his game. “I hope that after opening up, I can feel a little better about myself and live more peacefully doing what I love,” he wrote.

His story is a stark reminder that mental health struggles spare no one – not even those at the peak of their craft. As he works toward emotional wellbeing, the support of peers like Djokovic offers a glimmer of hope.

In an era where athletes are often judged solely by their trophies, Djokovic’s class act shines as a beacon of humanity. It’s a reminder that behind the pomp and circumstance of elite-level tennis lie real people, wrestling with real pain – and that sometimes, the greatest victory is simply reaching out.

If you’re struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.