How Novak Djokovic helped Federico Gomez deal with demons of the mind

Chennai: Federico Gomez’s journey in competitive tennis has been anything but straightforward. Last year in March, the Argentine spoke in a social media post about battling ‘suicidal thoughts’ and mental health struggles.

He found himself rebuilding not just his career but his relationship with the sport itself. Central to that process was the steady presence of Novak Djokovic, whose guidance has helped Gomez rediscover confidence and belief. “I am working a lot on myself. Like I said in the post, last year was not easy. Novak has been helping me a lot, and we have shared many practice sessions together. I am happy with the way I managed to get through that phase and I’m feeling good right now. Being called up to play the Davis Cup (last week) and represent my country for the first time was something that really helped me,” Gomez said after defeating India’s Manish Sureshkumar 6-1, 6-2 in the Chennai Open Challenger first round on Tuesday.

“Djokovic kind of told me about his background, maybe not a lot of people know. Everything that he went through and how he managed it. One thing he consistently told me was to find my own way. Obviously, a lot of people will suggest do this or do that or see this person or see that person. But you kind of know what is helping you and what works best for you. I think that really helped me focus on myself, understand what truly helps me, and stick to that,” Gomez, who is currently ranked 196 in the singles ATP chart, added.

While the 29-year-old endured a tough time last year, he made it to the main draw of the Grand Slam for the first time. Gomez reached the second round of the French Open as the lucky loser and made it to the US Open first round. “Financially, it (playing in Grand Slams) helped me fund the entire year. At the same time, it allowed me to understand where my level is and what I can build on. I am working hard to raise my level and become more consistent week in and week out.

” Before his mental health struggles, Gomez had to juggle playing tennis and coaching at the Cannas Tennis Academy (run by former Argentine pro Guillermo Canas) in Miami to stay financially afloat. After three years of coaching, he became a full-time professional in October 2022. Despite numerous challenges, Gomez found his way to doing what he loves most: playing tennis.