Sports

Osaka pulls out of Wimbledon, set to compete at Tokyo Olympics

London, Jun 17 (EFE).- Japanese world No. 2 Naomi Osaka, who pulled out of the French Open amid controversy over her refusal to speak to the media, announced Thursday that she is withdrawing from Wimbledon.

She said, however, that she will participate in the Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

The 23-year-old Osaka became the second Grand Slam champion to withdraw from Wimbledon on Thursday, following Spanish great Rafael Nadal’s announcement that he will not play that Grand Slam tennis tournament nor compete in the Tokyo Games.

The four-time major champion pulled out of Roland Garros earlier this month prior to her second-round match, saying she would not speak to the media due to “mental health” concerns. French Open officials had threatened to default her from the tournament and fined her 11,000 euros after she did not attend a mandatory press conference following her first-round win.

“Naomi won’t be playing Wimbledon this year,” a statement released by her agent read. “She is taking some personal time with friends and family. She will be ready for the Olympics and is excited to play in front of her home fans.”

Osaka confirmed her participation in Tokyo after earlier questioning last month whether it was wise to hold the Games amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The 35-year-old Nadal, who shares the men’s record with 20 Grand Slam singles titles, pulled out of both Wimbledon and the Olympics, saying he needs to take time off now after a demanding clay-court season and stressing his long-term focus on prolonging his career. EFE

msg/mc

Related Articles

Back to top button