By John Ogunsemore

Real Madrid midfielder, Jude Bellingham has revealed his struggle with mental health, noting that he kept up a “macho” image to deflect from physical vulnerabilities.

The 22-year-old England international urged other players to speak up about their mental health challenges to serve as motivation for others.

The Laureus ambassador said, “As athletes, it seems like we have the world at our feet or hands – we can do whatever we want, earn so much money and never be affected by it.

“But the reality is, if we can show vulnerability, then it opens up a bigger conversation for people who are struggling in the darkness. It’s the duty of people like me – and the positions we’re in – to be role models.”

Bellingham, who is recovering from a shoulder injury, recounted how social media conversations affected him deeply as a younger player.

He said he would search his name on Twitter (now X) to seek out criticism or praise.

Bellingham said, “With the development of social media and technology, there’s more ways to attack someone, to make them feel down.

“And I think there’s still a stigma around talking about mental health. I know there’s been times where I’ve felt vulnerable, doubted myself and needed someone to talk to – and, instead, I’ve tried to keep up this macho athlete image of, ‘I don’t need anyone’.

“The truth is that I do, everyone does. And you’ll feel a lot better from talking about your feelings and emotions.”