Building mental strength beyond the scoreboard

Athletes and coaches open up about facing fear, injury, and pressure while nurturing mental well-being beyond the field

- Samarth Goyal

In sport, talent may win you matches but mental strength defines your journey. On Mental Health Day today, athletes and coaches share stories of emotional balance, resilience and acceptance.

FEAR AND FOCUS

Athletes consistently face fears that extend beyond the game itself. “As a professional athlete, the biggest fear is injury. That's probably the biggest scare in any athlete’s career,” says Prannoy HS, a badminton player. Pravin Tambe, coach to Women Premier League squad Gujarat Giants highlights the doubts that may stem in players despite all the work they have put in: “Are you going to achieve what you have worked hard for? What if you won't perform?”