McIlroy lends support to Osaka over decision to take break

Golfer Rory McIlroy has backed Naomi Osaka's decision to take a break from tennis following the Japanese world number three's elimination from the U.S. Open last week, saying that it was important that athletes did not let results define them.

A tearful Osaka told reporters that she would be taking some time off from the sport after crashing out in the third round at Flushing Meadows to 19-year-old Leylah Fernandez, adding that she had been struggling with anxiety and depression over the last few years. Speaking after his final round at the Tour Championship -- where he finished tied for 14th -- McIlroy said that he had faced similar difficulties in his own career.