17 July,2016 10:28 AM IST | | AFP
Wimbledon runner-up Milos Raonic and women's World No 5 Simona Halep dealt the Olympics tennis tournament a double body blow when they pulled out of Rio, citing health fears over the Zika virus.
Milos Raonic and Simona Halep
Paris: Wimbledon runner-up Milos Raonic and women's World No 5 Simona Halep dealt the Olympics tennis tournament a double body blow when they pulled out of Rio, citing health fears over the Zika virus.
Milos Raonic and Simona Halep
Raonic, the World No 7 from Canada who was defeated by Andy Murray in Wimbledon final, said he had taken the decision "with a heavy heart". Halep, the 2014 French Open runner-up, said she too was concerned over the Zika virus and did not want to damage her hopes of having a family when she retires from playing.
"It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my withdrawal from participation in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games," the 25-year-old Raonic announced on his Facebook page.
"After much deliberation with my family and coaches, I am making this decision for a variety of health concerns including the uncertainty around the Zika virus."
Halep, 24, also took to Facebook to announce her withdrawal. "I regret to announce that I have decided I will not compete in the Olympic Games. The reason for my decision is the concern regarding the danger posed by the Zika virus," wrote Halep.
"Family is important for me and I can't risk not being able to have one of my own after my career in tennis is over." Halep added.
