British tennis player Dan Evans became the latest to pull out of the Tokyo Olympics set to get underway in a few days time.
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British tennis player Dan Evans became the latest to pull out of the Tokyo Olympics set to get underway in a few days time. However, Evans pulled out not over fears of the virus but due to contracting it. Thus, he will be unable to prepare properly in time for the Games. In a statement posted on Instagram, he wished Team GB all the very best for the Games. He also said he hoped to be back on the court soon.
“Hi guys. Unfortunately I recently tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, I will not be able to prepare and get myself ready for the Olympic Games in Tokyo. I am hugely disappointed and currently self-isolating according to the guidelines as set out by the government,” he said.
“I want to wish the entire Team GB all the very best for the Games and look forward to being back on court in the near future,” he added.
Evans was going to play in the men’s singles draw alongside defending champion Andy Murray. But he would also be part of the doubles draw alongside Neal Skupski.
Evans joins a long list of tennis players who will not be at Tokyo for the Games. Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Dominic Thiem have all pulled out of the Games.
The likes of Denis Shapovalov, Bianca Andreescu and Johanna Konta will also not be part of the event. As such the Games – delayed by a whole year due to the coronavirus pandemic – lacks tennis star power.
Federer pulled out due to injury concerns, specifically in his knee. “During the grass court season, I unfortunately experienced a setback with my knee, and have accepted that I must withdraw from the Tokyo Olympic Games,” Federer said.
“I am greatly disappointed, as it has been an honor and highlight of my career each time I have represented Switzerland.
“I’ve already begun rehabilitation in the hopes of returning to the tour later this summer. I wish the entire Swiss team the best of luck and I will be rooting hard from afar.”
For Nadal, it was about managing his time on the court and prolonging his career. “Hi all, I have decided not to participate at this year’s Championships at Wimbledon and the Olympic Games in Tokyo,” he said on Twitter.
“It’s never an easy decision to take but after listening to my body and discuss it with my team I understand that it is the right decision.”
Novak Djokovic is also unsure of his participation at this point. After his Wimbledon triumph, he said him being at Tokyo is ’50-50′.
