Deontological Ethics, Naomi Osaka, and the 2021 French Open: A Teaching Case Study for Deontological Ethics

This simulation scenario is based on the events surrounding Naomi Osaka’s decision to withdraw from the 2021 French Open tennis tournament, in which Osaka chose not to participate in media obligations due to mental health concerns. Tournament officials attempted to address her concerns, but Osaka did not find the response substantial enough and viewed the response as worsening the situation. Sport managers, athletes, and other stakeholders have responsibilities toward one another that may be best viewed through deontological ethics. Students will analyze the situation from the perspective of a sport manager using deontology as their guiding ethical framework. Learning objectives include developing a deeper understanding of Kant’s categorical imperative and Ross’s prima facie intuitionism, as well as providing opportunities for students to practice ethical leadership in a classroom setting.