When it comes to the Olympics and tennis, the combination may seem a bit odd, especially for the Paris Games in 2024. Just over a month after the top tennis players finished competing on the red clay of Roland Garros, they are back on it when they should be transitioning to the hard court swing in North America.
A dozen years ago, during the London Olympics, the players simply moved across town from Wimbledon to the Olympic Village and back to the All England Club for another tournament. But since then, things have become more challenging.
In 2016, the concerns were about traveling to Rio and the Zika virus. In Tokyo 2021, COVID restrictions, testing, and competing in empty stadiums under scorching conditions were part of the equation.
Great Britain’s Andy Murray won his second consecutive Olympic gold at the 2016 Olympics. (Clive Brunskill / Getty Images)
This year, players face the challenge of transitioning from clay to grass to clay again and then to hard courts in North America for the U.S. Open. For someone like Iga Swiatek, a dominant clay-court player, it’s a dream scenario.
However, for most players, it’s a complex situation.
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Some top players like Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, and Sebastian Korda have declined the opportunity due to travel fatigue and the need to prepare for the U.S. Open. Tiafoe, for example, is excited about the chance to see LeBron James and Stephen Curry play together.
Other players like Aryna Sabalenka and Ons Jabeur have also opted out due to injury concerns.
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With each player’s withdrawal, an opportunity opens up for someone eager to participate. It’s a chance to experience the unique spirit of the Olympic Games.
Many top players, including Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and others, are still committed to competing in the Olympic tournament. For them, the allure of playing for a medal is just as important as winning a Grand Slam title.
Novak Djokovic did win an Olympic bronze medal in Beijing in 2008. (Clive Brunskill / Getty Images)