Tennis Star Jannik Sinner Out Of Paris Olympics Owing To Tonsillitis

Jannik Sinner has announced his withdrawal from the Paris Olympics due to tonsillitis. The world number one confirmed this on Wednesday, stating he hasn't played since his quarter-final loss to Daniil Medvedev. During that match, Sinner left the court feeling unwell.

The Italian tennis star shared an emotional post on social media confirming his decision. He wrote: "I am saddened to inform you that unfortunately I will not be able to participate in the Paris Olympic Games. After a good week of clay training, I started to feel unwell. I spent a couple of days resting and during a visit, the doctor found tonsillitis and strongly advised me against playing."

Sinner expressed his disappointment at missing the Games, which would have been his first Olympic appearance at 22 years old. He stated: "Missing the Games is a huge disappointment as it was one of my main goals for this season. I couldn't wait to have the honor of representing my country in this very important event."

Despite his absence, Sinner wished luck to all Italian athletes competing in Paris. He added: "Good luck to all the Italian athletes who I will support from home. Forza Italia."

The Italian has had an impressive start to 2024, winning his first major title at the Australian Open and being named world number one in June.

With Sinner out of the competition, Novak Djokovic becomes the highest-ranked men's player participating in the Olympics. Djokovic aims to add another medal to his collection, having won bronze in 2008.

This marks the first time since Pete Sampras in Sydney 24 years ago that the ATP world number one will not compete in the Olympics.

Sinner's announcement included a heartfelt message in Italian: "Sono amareggiato di informarvi che purtroppo non potrò partecipare ai Giochi Olimpici di Parigi. Dopo una buona settimana di allenamento sulla terra ho cominciato a non sentirmi bene. Ho trascorso un paio di giorni a riposo ed in visita il medico ha riscontrato una tonsillite e pic.twitter.com/Qrx8TJLoMA."

Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) July 24, 2024

Sinner's withdrawal is indeed a significant blow for both him and his fans who were eagerly anticipating his Olympic debut.