Naomi Osaka talks about mental health and helping others with Women's Health Magazine 

Naomi Osaka has been a hot commodity when it comes to magazine features this summer, and it’s not just because she’s the No. 3 tennis player in the world. It’s because she has taken a stand for mental health and set an example for athletes everywhere. Now, she’s realizing where her priorities lie and that there’s more to life than just tennis.

Speaking with Women’s Health Magazine as their September cover star, Osaka opened up about her creative side, her entrepreneurial endeavors, and the importance of helping others. The 23-year-old has always been drawn to fashion, ever since she was a child. Recently, she has partnered with fashion giants like Louis Vuitton and Levi’s, designing her own looks and collections. She’s also taken it upon herself to create the products that she wants to use and is passionate about. Osaka is the CEO of Kinló, a skincare company founded by her that focuses on melanated skin and how to best care for it.

When it comes to connecting with and helping others, Osaka has turned her time and attention to Play Academy. Play Academy is a Nike program that originally launched in Japan, but has recently expanded to the United States and Haiti. It’s goal is to encourage healthy activity and exercise in young girls, which is something Osaka holds close to her heart.

“The thought that a gesture, an activation, a program can impact and change a life, that’s really powerful to me. Of all the things I do, I find that when I am doing my best to help others, it’s most fulfilling.”

Finding these different sides of herself has helped Osaka feel more grounded in who she is. Yes, she is a four-time Grand Slam champion, but the tennis star is young and learning as she goes, and she’s found a certain level of comfort in that.

“Now more than ever I see that you can be more than just one thing…More than just someone who plays tennis.”

The 2018 and 2020 US Open champion will be back in action in New York next week, vying for a third title at the final Grand Slam of the year. But given everything she’s learned about herself over the past year, she’ll also be fine without the trophy.

Osaka has so much more to do, as a tennis player, an entrepreneur, and a young adult simply trying to discover herself. She's set to defend her major title at the upcoming US Open.