New York, Aug 25 (AP) Players at the U.S. Open will have access to licensed mental health providers and quiet rooms as part of an initiative announced by the U.S. Tennis Association.

The USTA said it seeks to "ensure that a comprehensive and holistic approach will be taken with all aspects of player health, including mental health."

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"Our goal is to make mental health services as readily available to athletes as services for a sprained ankle — and with no stigma attached," said Dr. Brian Hainline, a USTA first vice president.

"We will provide an environment that fosters wellness while providing the necessary resources to readily allow mental health care seeking."

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Reigning U.S. Open champion Naomi Osaka brought attention to the topic when she pulled out of the French Open in late May to take a mental health break, then sat out Wimbledon, too. She said she has "huge waves of anxiety" before speaking to the media and that she has "suffered long bouts of depression."

Other athletes in tennis — and other sports — also have discussed their concerns. (AP)

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)