Paula Badosa became very emotional while reading Federico Gomez's candid mental health revelation as the Spanish tennis star called the ATP world No. 135 "brave" and encouraged him to keep going because better days are coming.
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Over the weekend, the three-time Challenger champion from Argentina shared that while the last half a year has been the best tennis-wise, it has also been the worst when it comes to his personal life.
In his message, the 28-year-old admitted to suffering to the point where he even wonders if it is worth living anymore.
Badosa, who has been very open over the years about the time when she battled major depression, was "hurt" to see Gomez struggling so much.
"@fedegomez250 It hurts me so much to hear these words, where I look so reflective," the 2025 Australian Open semifinalist wrote in a message posted on her Instagram Story.
"Lots of encouragement and lots of strength. You are very brave. Remember: the storm doesn't last forever, the sun always rises, and when it does, you'll be stronger than ever."
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Gomez made his first big tennis breakthrough his mental health deteriorated
Going into 2024, the Argentine had never won a Challenger title or been ranked inside the top-300 in the world.
At the end of the year, he had three Challenger titles - made his ATP debut and even clinched one win - and finished ranked inside the top-150.
While everything seemed perfect in Gomez's world, it was actually far from that.
"2024 was undoubtedly the best year of my tennis career, but in turn, the worst year personally, and this last time was no exception," the 28-year-old wrote in his Instagram post.
"Living with thoughts of leaving tennis completely, of really questioning myself if all this is really worth it and even repeatedly suicidal thoughts of not wanting to live anymore and leave this world."
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After telling his story, Gomez was also told by Boris Becker to feel safe to reach out if he needed help.
Meanwhile, the Argentine plays today against Rudy Quan in the Indian Wells qualifying first round.
