Ons Jabeur has announced that she won't play at the 2024 Paris Olympics, joining an ever-growing list of players who have opted out of the event.
The 2024 Paris Olympics were supposed to feature an amazing tennis event, and while they will, a few notable players will be missing. So far, Andrey Rublev, Karen Khachanov, and Ben Shelton have decided to skip the tournament on the men's side, which was surprising as the two Russians won medals at last year's Olympics.
Emma Raducanu declined a wild card on the women's side, while Aryna Sabalenka opted out due to health concerns. Jabeur has now officially announced that she, too, won't be playing in Paris, naming health concerns as well.
She's been dealing with a knee injury for a while. The quick changes in the surface from clay to grass to clay again weren't good for her. After consulting medical experts, the Tunisian was advised not to risk it, and she won't.
"After consulting with my medical team regarding attending the Olympics in Paris, we have decided that the quick change of surface and the body's adaptation required would put my knee at risk and jeopardize the rest of my season."
"I have always loved representing my country in any competition, However, I must listen to my body and follow my medical team's advice. Wishing my teammates the best in the Games, and I will be their biggest supporter."
It's an unfortunate development for Jabeur but also a sensible decision considering everything. Fully healthy players like Sabalenka didn't feel it was wise to undergo so many changes in a short period of time, so it's no wonder that players who have dealt with injuries recently aren't willing to risk it either.
Unfortunately, more players are expected to join the ever-growing list of players opting out of the event.
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