Romanian tennis player Simona Halep, 5th WTA, announced on Friday on Facebook she will not compete at Rio Olympics, due to the dangers incurred by the Zika virus.
“I regret to announce that I’ve decided not to compete at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro due to the dangers incurred by the Zika virus. After countless discussions with doctors and my family, I’ve reached the conclusion that the risks are too high for my health, especially as a woman. The family is too important for me, I can’t risk failing to have one of my own after concluding my tennis career. I am aware of the fact that the Olympic Games are a very important event and I really regret the circumstances. I hope the Romanian Olympic and Sports Committee and Romanians will respect my decision. I wish good luck to participants, especially to our delegation. I will continue to play and to represent Romania with pride to as many tournaments, as I am doing at the BRD Bucharest Open,” Halep wrote.