Tennis star Caroline Garcia has made the difficult decision to step away from the sport for the remainder of the year due to mental health reasons. The Frenchwoman, currently ranked 36th in the world, revealed that she is feeling “exhausted” from dealing with anxiety and panic attacks.

Garcia took to social media to share her feelings, emphasizing that she needs a break from the relentless demands of professional tennis. As a former world No. 4 and winner of 11 WTA titles, Garcia’s decision to prioritize her mental well-being over competition is a significant one.

This season has been a challenging one for Garcia, who has struggled to find her form and make deep runs in tournaments. Her early exits at the Grand Slams and recent defeat in the Guadalajara Open have added to her frustrations.

The 30-year-old’s disappointment was compounded by negative messages she received following her early exit from the US Open. Garcia expressed her dismay, stating, “I’m tired of living in a world where my worth is measured by last week’s results, my ranking or my unforced errors.”

The issue of mental health in tennis has been a hot topic, with top players like Iga Swiatek raising concerns about the prioritization of players’ well-being. Garcia’s decision to take a step back and focus on her mental health sends a powerful message about the importance of self-care in the competitive world of professional sports.