Emma Raducanu won't be playing at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and she has now explained why she made that surprising decision.
Raducanu was widely expected to be in Paris for the Olympic Games, especially after she skipped over Roland Garros in favor of the grass season. She was set to receive one of the two ITF wild cards but declined it because she didn't feel it was the right timing for her.
British Olympic team leader Iain Bates confirmed that, providing that initial explanation. Raduacnu didn't offer any comments on it initially but has now commented on it, explaining that she takes great pride in playing for her country and that her decision not to play had nothing to do with her desire to represent Great Britain.
"I love playing for my country, I think that was pretty clear at Billie Jean Cup, I really fought, and I enjoyed it so much, but the Olympics is just not the right time for me this year."
"I really hope to be a part of the next one but I guess with the change in surface, it’s just not worth the risk for me at this point having recovered from the surgeries last year but I do wish the team good luck."
Several players have mentioned the surface as a reason for skipping the Games. Aryna Sabalenka has been the biggest name so far to confirm that she won't play in Paris, and she cited the frequent surface changes as one of the main reasons for it.
In fairness, it is a tricky schedule for most players to navigate, and Raducanu has had injury problems in the past.
"So not in a diva way, [I’m] just prioritising my body and my health because I know if I’m fit, I know if I’m giving my 100%, I know great things are happening and coming."
0 Comments