Italian tennis star and world number one, Jannik Sinner, has withdrawn from the Paris Summer Olympics due to tonsillitis, marking a significant setback for Italy’s hopes of securing their first tennis medal at the Games since 1924.
Sinner, who clinched his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open earlier this year and reached the semifinals of the French Open, announced his withdrawal on Wednesday through a heartfelt message on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“I am saddened to inform you that unfortunately I will not be able to participate in the Paris Olympic Games,” Sinner wrote. “After a good week of clay training I started to feel unwell. I spent a couple of days resting and during a visit the doctor found tonsillitis and strongly advised me against playing.”
The young ace was also scheduled to compete in the men’s doubles event alongside compatriot Lorenzo Musetti. His spot will now be filled by the 207th-ranked Andrea Vavassori, stepping in to represent Italy.
“Missing the Games is a huge disappointment as it was one of my main goals for this season. I couldn’t wait to have the honour of representing my country in this very important event. Good luck to all the Italian athletes who I will support from home,” Sinner added.
Sinner’s absence elevates world number two and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic to the top seed in the men’s singles draw, potentially altering the dynamics of the competition.
The Italian’s withdrawal is the latest in a string of top players pulling out of the Olympic tennis tournament. Earlier this week, the Czech Republic’s Olympic silver medalist Marketa Vondrousova and Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz also announced their withdrawals. Other notable absences include world number three Aryna Sabalenka, Ons Jabeur, Emma Raducanu in the women’s bracket, and Ben Shelton on the men’s side.
The tennis events at the Paris Olympics are scheduled to take place from July 27 to August 4 at the iconic Roland Garros, promising intense matches despite the missing stars.
Sinner’s fans and the tennis community alike are wishing him a speedy recovery, eagerly anticipating his return to the court.
Reference(s):
World No. 1 Sinner withdraws from tennis at Paris 2024 due to illness
cgtn.com
