Robin Uthappa opens up on his battle with depression
What's the story
Former Indian batter, Robin Uthappa, has publicly acknowledged his battle with clinical depression, a subject he has rarely discussed before. In a candid video shared on his official X account, Uthappa detailed his mental health struggles that began in 2011. During this time, he experienced feelings of worthlessness and was consumed by emotional distress. Uthappa, who last played for India in 2015, retired from all formats two years ago.
Mental health
Uthappa emphasizes on taking one day at a time
In his video, Uthappa highlighted the importance of living in the present during his recovery journey. He said, "In 2011, I was so ashamed of who I became as a human being. It's absolutely ok to not know what you have to do next." He further added that sometimes just existing for one day is enough and often light is needed only till the next step.
Off-field battles
Uthappa acknowledges struggles beyond cricket
Uthappa acknowledged his struggles extended beyond the cricket field. "I've faced many battles on the cricket field, but none as tough as the one I fought with depression," he wrote in his post. In his post, Uthappa also highlighted how Graham Thorpe died by suicide. The former Indian cricketer revealed the same amid growing concerns about athletes' mental well-being, particularly in high-pressure environments like professional sports.
Twitter Post
WATCH: Uthappa's long-standing battle
I've faced many battles on the cricket field, but none as tough as the one I fought with depression. I'm breaking the silence around mental health because I know I'm not alone.
— Robbie Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) August 20, 2024
Prioritise your well-being, seek help, and find hope in the darkness.
I share my story on this… pic.twitter.com/XSACIZUfm4
Sporting legacy
Uthappa's career and legacy in cricket
Uthappa, who bid adieu to cricket in September 2022, has made significant contributions to the sport. He featured in 46 ODIs and 13 T20Is for India, tallying 1,183 runs. Uthappa was pivotal to India's success in the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup (2007), where the MS Dhoni-led side scripted history. His knocks against Australia and Pakistan grabbed eyeballs. However, inconsistency and selection setbacks derailed his international career.
IPL
Uthappa's IPL journey
Besides winning the T20 World Cup, Uthappa won two Indian Premier League (IPL) honors, with Kolkata Knight Riders (2014) and Chennai Super Kings (2021). Uthappa went on to bag the prestigious Orange Cap in 2014 after smashing a total of 660 runs from 16 games. Uthappa, who owns 4,952 runs, re-invented himself in his last few IPL seasons, with CSK. His strike-rate soared playing for the Yellow Army.