Abhinav Bindra Named Among Nine IOC Mental Health Ambassadors
Abhinav Bindra has been named an IOC mental health ambassador to prioritise mental health in sports through open discussions and support.
Abhinav Bindra, India's first-ever individual gold medallist at the Olympics, has been named one of the nine mental health ambassadors by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Alongside Abhinav Bindra, who secured gold in the men's 10m air rifle shooting at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, the list includes Olympians Holly Bradshaw (British pole vaulter), Camille Cheng (swimmer from Hong Kong, China), Bruno Fratus (Brazilian swimmer), Gracie Gold (American figure skater), Marie-Josee Ta Lou-Smith (sprinter from Ivory Coast), Ryan Pini (swimmer from Papua New Guinea), Akani Simbine (South African sprinter), and Masomah Ali Zada (Afghan cyclist).
'The IOC believes that mental health is just as important as physical health, and no athlete should face challenges alone. That's why, as part of the IOC Mental Health Action Plan, we've brought together a group of Olympians from around the world to lead the way in creating a more open and supportive sporting environment," IOC said in a statement.
'The IOC Mental Health Ambassadors are using their voices and experiences to break down stigma, encourage honest conversations, and champion mental well-being in sport.
'Each Ambassador serves as a trusted advocate, helping to share evidence-based messages, offer valuable feedback on IOC mental health initiatives, and inspire open and honest conversations, within sport and beyond.
'Whether through social media, one-on-one conversations or IOC educational programmes, they're here to inspire and support the athlete community, and ensure that mental health remains a vital part of the high-performance environment. With athletes leading the conversation, we're working together to build a culture where mental health matters, and where every athlete feels safe, supported and heard," the statement concluded.
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