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via Reuters

via Reuters

Carlos Alcaraz is all set to rock the Paris Olympics, but there’s a fly in the ointment right from the start. The Spaniard was excited to be going to the main event in the center of Paris, but he will now be seeing it from a distance. Right now, figuring out why there has been such a wide gap is the primary worry. The question of what could prevent one of tennis’s biggest players from participating on the prestigious Olympic stage looms large in the minds of fans and commentators alike.

The 21-year-old tennis player and Rafael Nadal will team up at the future Paris 2024 Olympics. In addition, the third-ranked tennis player announced in a statement that he will not be attending the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris tonight.

Alcaraz announced the news on social media, “I was very excited to be able to go to the Opening Ceremony of the Olympics today with Spain, but tomorrow I have two games and it is advisable to rest and be ready! This begins!” 

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The young Spaniard is preparing for his Games debut and has a packed Saturday agenda, putting his training ahead of the ceremonial celebrations. The four-time Grand Slam champion’s first-round match in the singles competition is set to take place during the day at Roland Garros against Hady Habib.

On the renowned clay courts of Paris, this match is eagerly anticipated as the champion aims to start his Olympic campaign strong against the promising Habib. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that he’s making a wise decision by opting to rest and sleep early, given that he has two matches scheduled for tomorrow.

For Alcaraz, the Paris Olympics promise a distinctive and lively experience in addition to the high stakes of the competition. In order to completely embrace the spirit of his first Olympic Games, the 21-year-old has stated that he would prefer to stay at the Olympic Village rather than opulent hotels.

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Carlos Alcaraz to explore the Olympic Village life 

For a first-timer, the most important aspect of the tournament is to explore as much as possible, and the Spaniard is doing just that. The 21-year-old has expressed his desire to stay at the Olympic Village and explore the Olympic life.

Carlos Alcaraz said in a recent interaction with the Tennis Channel, “Well, I have huge expectations for the Olympic Games, not on the results side but to enjoy the experience. Being in the village with all the Spanish athletes is going to be a really beautiful moment for me. I will try to enjoy as much as I can.”

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The Molitor Hotel, which is ideally situated close to the Roland Garros facilities in Paris, will host the remaining members of his team, including his agent Albert Molina. Subsequently, the Spanish star will compete in both singles and doubles. He will link up with tennis legend Rafael Nadal in the doubles competition, creating one of the most powerful doubles pairings in tennis history.

Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Alcaraz missing out on the opening ceremony? Do let us know in the comment section below.