Bia Haddad announces career break for mental health

Brazilian tennis player Beatriz Haddad Maia has announced a career break for the remainder of the second half of the year. The 30-year-old athlete shared the decision via social media, citing the need to focus on her mental health and personal reflection.

Haddad Maia, who reached the top 10 of the WTA rankings in June 2023, has faced a challenging season, recording only four wins against 19 losses. Her most recent competition was a first-round exit at Wimbledon. By stepping away now, she intends to utilize WTA regulations that protect her ranking for six months following her last match.

“It's a decision I've been facing mentally for a few months; my relationship with tennis hasn't been easy,” she stated. This marks the second time the player has taken a break during a season to prioritize her mental well-being.