The reality about athletes playing abroad

In the high-level world of sport, pressure and stress are constant partners. However, for athletes who compete outside their home countries, the challenges multiply, and can become a real problem. From the distance from their loved ones to language and cultural barriers, these athletes face a unique set of obstacles that you may not realize from the outside, and which can affect both their psychological well-being and their sporting performance.

We had the opportunity to talk about the topic with two professional athletes; Yannick Kraag, from Club Joventut Badalona, and Bashiru Mohammed, player of R.C.D. Espanyol.

The challenge of distance

One of the main challenges faced by elite athletes, and probably the first one that comes to mind, is that because they play away from home, they suffer from the distance from their loved ones and their circle. For many athletes, being away from their families and friends can be extremely difficult, especially during times of high pressure and competitive stress. The pressure of playing in an unfamiliar environment is difficult to tolerate.

For the Joventut Badalona player Yannick Kraag, this was one of the hardest parts of the process. “I left home at 16 which is tough because I had a lot of friends there, still do. The first years were tougher than now. Now I have a social life here too, so that helps” said the Dutch player. One of the advices given by Kraag is “call my friends two or three hours a day, that helps me stay connected”.

Something we can identify as a pattern, as Mohammed also told us that he talks a lot with his family: “After training, you just have to go home, talk to the family. They have to hear from you, and you have to hear to them. It is very difficult because you are alone. You just have to concentrate in play football and later talk to the family, that’s all“.

It is interesting to hear how important it is for both athletes to communicate with their families. We can say that they are strong and trusted support groups for them, and they have a unique role in their life, so it is easier to open up about any problems with them.

Linguistic and cultural barriers

Another significant challenge for top athletes playing abroad is the language and cultural barriers. Adapting to a new vocabulary and a different way of life can be something that not everyone is good at, and can be really difficult. The difference in language is one of the problems that both have had since they arrived to Spain. And that’s why we had to communicate in English, even though one is better at speaking Spanish.

Mohammed said that he “was founding it difficult with the language, because I didn’t understand anything. I had to get a teacher”. A problem that, after four years, has improved a little bit, as he has adapted “to the language, culture, and football.“. 

Research conducted by the World Athletes’ Association in January 2024 revealed that foreign athletes competing abroad are 25% more likely to experience feelings of isolation and homesickness compared to their national teammates. This data underscores the importance of identifying and addressing the challenges faced by athletes competing abroad, and the need for support mechanisms to safeguard their mental well-being.

In Kraag’s case, although he arrived to Badalona a little earlier than Mohammed, he still hasn’t managed to adapt to the language. And this is why we had to communicate with him in English. However, he has managed to acclimatize to the country’s lifestyle. “I have made a lot of good friends that I talk to even when I’m not here. That’s really important, there’s a lot of good people here, and I mean, as the city, I really like it. I love living here and would live here for a long time”, said the young player.

Every effort is rewarded

Despite the formidable challenges they’ve encountered, the stories of Yannick Kraag and Bashiru Mohammed underscore the adage that perseverance yields rewards. Kraag’s decision to leave his homeland enabled him to pursue his passion for basketball, a sport virtually nonexistent in his native country: “I wouldn’t be able to live from basketball if I didn’t move”. Reflecting on his journey, he emphasizes the enrichment gained from immersing himself in different cultures and broadening his horizons.

Similarly, Mohammed views his transition from Africa to Europe as a profound learning experience, driven by a relentless determination to adapt and excel. Despite the uncertainties that lie ahead, Mohammed remains steadfast in his commitment to continuous growth and improvement. Their journeys serve as powerful reminders that amidst the trials of competing overseas, diligent effort and unwavering resolve pave the path to success and fulfillment.

Supporting overseas athletes

In an increasing competitive and more demanding world, it is not surprising that the sporting sector is becoming infected by the rise of mental health problems. Expectations, failures, the pressure to be the best and self-demand can turn sport into a risk factor for experiencing mental health problems. The presence of psychology professionals in sports teams is necessary. According to a study published in February of this year by the General Council of Psychology of Spain, 81.3% of psychology professionals in the sports sector have seen an increase in the demand for their services in recent years.

The mental health of elite athletes playing overseas is an issue that deserves serious attention and consideration by sports organizations and teams, as well as fans. It is right for fans to be aware of the unique and particular challenges faced by these players, and to support them in making the right adjustment – which will increase their performance exponentially – and for their emotional well-being.