With the excitement of Roland Garros still fresh, tennis players worldwide are now setting their sights on the ultimate stage, the Summer Olympics in Paris. As the grandest platform for athletes approaches, enthusiasm is reaching a fever pitch. Players and fans alike are eagerly anticipating the showcase of exceptional talent and fierce competition that the Olympics promise. However, amidst the soaring excitement, a shadow looms for Russian tennis players.

In a major setback for Russian tennis fans, several top players have decided to opt out of the Paris Olympics. While the Russian Tennis Federation (RTF) confirmed the absence of Karen Khachanov and Lyudmila Samsonova, a new name has joined the fray. In a shocking admission, Andrey Rublev’s mother, Marina Marenko, confirmed that the Russian tennis star will also withdraw from the prestigious tournament. 

In a recent discussion with Sports 24, Marenko confirmed that Rublev will remain absent from the Olympics. While she could not confirm the exact reason, she believed it to be a health issue. “Andrey will not go to the Games in Paris. I only recently learned from him that he will not participate in the Olympics. But he didn’t say why.” Marenko further claimed that Rublev was desirous of playing at the Olympics, but his health was stopping him from doing so. 

“He, of course, had a desire to participate in this tournament. I think it has to do with health. Andrey just needs to find time to heal his throat. Treat or remove tonsils.” In an earlier statement during the Madrid Open, Rublev revealed that he had contracted a bacterial infection in his throat. This seemed to have impacted the player’s health, according to his mother. “He was currently undergoing treatment. I understand that after this, the body is greatly weakened. These are my assumptions, but I don’t know the exact reasons.” Meanwhile, American tennis players are extremely poised for their venture. 

Coco Gauff, Danielle Collins, and other American players had expressed their excitement to play in Paris. For Coco, it would be her first Olympics, as she missed it in 2020 after she contracted the coronavirus. Speaking about the importance of the event, the 20-year-old admitted it to be as important as the Grand Slam. “For me, the Olympics are a top priority. I would say equal to the Grand Slams. I wouldn’t put it above or below just because I’ve never played before. This is my first time.” 

The absence of Rublev is indeed sad news for Russia, as the country won’t be able to send its players under its flag due to the flak it received following its war with Ukraine. Meanwhile, another key contender who would be eyeing the Olympic gold is Rafael Nadal.

‘I will try to be a good partner’ Rafael Nadal’s humble take ahead of the Paris Olympics

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal is optimistic about his chances at the Paris Olympics. The 22-time grand slam winner will be seen pairing up with the World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz for the doubles tournament to form arguably the best team.

In the latest interview, Rafa opened up about his Paris Olympic dream and said that he will try to be a good partner for Carlos Alcaraz, per Punto de Break. “I’m going to try to arrive as well prepared as possible. I haven’t played doubles for a long time, but Carlos is in a fantastic moment after winning in Paris, so I will try to arrive as best as possible and as prepared as possible to be a good partner for him.”

Now, with the absence of players like Andrey Rublev, it will be interesting to see if Rafael Nadal can increase his chances for the Gold Medal.