“Very Difficult Decision”: Victoria Azarenka Becomes the Latest Victim at Tokyo Olympics 2021

As the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games that are now being held in 2021 get closer, the number of players pulling out of their respective tennis draws is only getting higher. Multiple Grand Slam and Olympics winners have already made their decision not to play the Olympics public. With just over a week to go until Tokyo 2020 kicks off, veteran Victoria Azarenka announced her withdrawal as well.

Belarus’ Victoria Azarenka and Canada’s Vasek Pospisil latest exits

Adding to the long list of pull outs, former Grand Slam champion Victoria Azarenka announced that she will be skipping the tournament. “I would like to inform everyone that I have made a difficult decision to not play in the Tokyo Olympics. I have many amazing memories winning the gold while competing and representing Belarus in previous games. But with all the challenges we are facing as it relates to the pandemic, I know in my heart this is the right decision for myself and team” she said.

Canada’s Vasek Pospisil also followed suit, making it known that he will be unable to go for gold. “To all my fans back home, unfortunately I have decided not to take part in the Olympic Games in Tokyo this year. Several factors have played into this difficult decision which include an aggravated right shoulder that will need rest to prevent further injury.”

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Who is set to feature?

Several top class players have erased their names from the Tokyo Olympics. Some of the prominent names are Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, Dominic Thiem and defending women’s champion Monica Puig. Canadian Bianca Andreescu, Johanna Konta, Australia’s Nick Kyrgios and 2016 runner-up Angelique Kerber are also set to miss the Games.

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Reigning champion Andy Murray is set to defend the gold medal that he has secured in the last two Olympics. Wimbledon champions Ashleigh Barty and Novak Djokovic are also likely to take part, barring a last minute change of decision. Home favorite Naomi Osaka will also feature, and make her much-awaited return to tennis at Tokyo.

In spite of lacking some spice, the Olympics are still bound to induce excitement and thrill among tennis fans. While the women’s side will have a new champion, Andy Murray will face an uphill task too. Let the countdown to Tokyo 2020 begin!