Ronald Araujo, a Uruguayan defender for FC Barcelona, has publicly addressed his mental health challenges for the first time, revealing that he had been struggling with anxiety for a year and a half, which eventually led to depression. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, he discussed how these issues intensified following a significant loss to Chelsea in the Champions League, where he was sent off while the team was trailing 1-0. The mounting pressure and subsequent criticisms prompted Araujo to take a break from football to prioritize his mental well-being, a decision supported by the club.

He reflected on what he described as a moment of emotional collapse after that game, sharing that despite feeling unwell, he had continued to push through due to habit and the expectation to perform. Araujo emphasized the importance of acknowledging one’s mental health needs and the necessity of seeking help when dealing with such challenges. His candid remarks shed light on the often-overlooked mental health issues faced by athletes, particularly at the professional level.

Araujo's experience comes during a time when there is growing awareness around mental health in sports, but stigma still exists. His openness about his struggles may encourage others in similar situations to speak out and seek help, marking a significant step toward normalizing conversations about mental health in the world of professional athletics.