Mbappé: “If I Wasn't Passionate, Football Would Have Disgusted Me Long Ago”

In a candid interview with the French magazine "L'Équipe," France's captain, Kylian Mbappé, spoke about the mental health pressures faced by elite athletes. He stated that openly discussing mental health remains a taboo because athletes "fear what people will say." Mbappé affirmed that his deep passion for football is the only thing that keeps him going in this demanding profession.

Mental Health: A Stigma in Elite Sports

• Societal Criticism: The 26-year-old forward criticized the prevailing notion that athletes should not show weakness. He said they can't express their pain because they risk "losing everything" and being severely criticized if they talk about feeling frustrated or tired after a loss.

• Success and Acceptance: The Real Madrid forward explained that the public only accepts an athlete's vulnerability when they are at the peak of their success. "If you win the World Cup, you come three days later and ask me, I can say it. But after a defeat? People won't accept that."

• 
  

Personal Drive and Internal Struggle

• High Standards: Mbappé talked about his constant self-criticism to achieve the highest possible levels, noting that he accepts public criticism because he is "much harder on myself than most people." This relentless pursuit of perfection places immense pressure on athletes.

• Passion as a Shield: Mbappé admitted that football can be "disgusting" at times due to the pressures and expectations. He stated, "Honestly, if I didn't have this passion, football would have disgusted me a long time ago." This comment reveals the darker side of fame and glory.