National team fly-half Matthieu Jalibert returned on Saturday, after Bordeaux-Bègles’ victory against Montpellier (9-6), in his short November tour with the France XV. “There is no problem with Fabien (Galthie) », indicated the 26-year-old player, whose contract extension with UBB until 2028 was made official this Saturday.
“It was a complex period,not easy to manage but it’s part of high-level sport,” he summed up. Jalibert left the Blues group three days before the match against New Zealand (30-29), for which he was not called up. He also was not recalled to face Argentina the following week (37-23).
“Not everything can always go right, that’s how it is. I expressed to Fabien a certain discomfort I was feeling and they suggested I take a break and return to Bordeaux, which I accepted. I have not distanced myself from the French team, I still remain a player of the french team and if I am called I will join with the greatest pleasure”, he assured.
“sometimes you have to know how to say enough is enough”
“we talk a lot about wellbeing and mental health and sometimes you have to know how to say enough when things are too much. For me it was, I think, the best choice and it did me good, he continued the opening match of bordeaux-Béglais. The important thing is that Fabien knows what I told him. We talked, we talked for long minutes, I told him what I felt, what was in my heart from the World Cup. He heard it, offered me this option which I accepted. »
“I always feel like people are trying to make me look bad,” he added. I know I haven’t done everything perfectly in my career,but I’ve always been honest and upfront and I can look at myself in the mirror. For me it’s the most critically important thing but sometimes, and especially for my family, it’s quite heavy to hear all these people express their opinions without really knowing the situation and without knowing me personally. »
What role does mental health play in an athlete’s performance and recovery?
Interview with Rugby Expert on Matthieu Jalibert’s Return and Mental Health in Sports
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today. We’re discussing the recent developments surrounding national team fly-half Matthieu Jalibert. After a complex period and his contract extension with Bordeaux-Bègles until 2028, what does his return signify for both the player and the team?
Expert: Thank you for having me. Jalibert’s return is significant,especially as he’s been a key player for the French team. His experience during the November tour, including stepping back from the squad, underscores the importance of mental health in high-level sports. It highlights that players are human and frequently enough face pressures that can impact their performance.
Editor: Jalibert mentioned feeling a certain discomfort and the need for a break.How common is this in professional sports, and what does it mean for an athlete to prioritize their mental health?
expert: It’s becoming increasingly common for athletes to prioritize mental health. The pressures of competition, especially at the elite level, can be immense. Athletes like Jalibert are realizing that it’s okay to take a step back when needed.this acknowledgment fosters a healthier habitat in sports and can lead to improved performance in the long run when players return rejuvenated.
Editor: He expressed a desire to remain part of the French team and returning with pleasure if called upon.What does this sentiment reflect about team dynamics and interaction between players and coaches?
Expert: Jalibert’s willingness to express his feelings to head coach Fabien Galthié is vital in fostering open communication within the team. It illustrates a culture where players respect their mental well-being and can discuss their needs candidly.Good communication fosters trust, essential for team cohesion, which ultimately can translate into better on-field performance.
Editor: Jalibert also mentioned feeling misunderstood by public opinion regarding his career. How do external pressures from media and fans affect athletes and their mental health?
Expert: External pressures can be incredibly heavy. Athletes are under constant scrutiny, and public opinion can easily sway perceptions of their performance.This environment can lead to anxiety and self-doubt. It’s crucial for athletes to have strong support systems, both within their team and from family, to help navigate these challenges. The more they can filter out negativity and focus on their goals, the better they’ll perform.
Editor: In light of Jalibert’s experience, what practical advice would you offer young athletes regarding mental well-being and managing pressures in competitive sports?
Expert: Young athletes should cultivate self-awareness and learn to recognize when they need a break—a lesson Jalibert exemplifies. They should also build a supportive network of coaches, teammates, and family. Seeking professional help, such as sports psychologists, can be beneficial. maintaining a balanced life outside of sports can considerably help in managing pressure and improving overall well-being.
Editor: Thank you for those insights. Matthieu Jalibert’s situation sheds light on the vital intersection between mental health and high-level competition.It’s important for readers, especially young athletes and their families, to heed these lessons.
Expert: Absolutely, and thank you for bringing this crucial topic to the forefront. Understanding the importance of mental health in sports can lead to healthier athletes and a more positive sports culture overall.