Security preparations for the upcoming Rio de Janeiro Olympics will be reviewed after a devastating attack in France, Brazilian officials said Friday. Rio de Janeiro will host up to half a million tourists for South America’s first Olympic Games, which start on August 5. “As I have founded a family recently, to limit health risks towards my nearest is the utmost priority”.
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Berdych, who married model Ester Satorova a year ago, had also pulled out of the Czech Republic’s Davis Cup tie with France, in which the Czechs are trailing 2-1 after Saturday’s rubbers. “The reason for my decision is the concern regarding the danger posed by the Zika virus”, wrote Halep. Pliskova’s withdrawal will hurt Czech Republic’s chances doubly since Radek Stepanek, who’s playing the Olympics has been conveniently left without a partner in both men’s and mixed doubles.
I am very proud to have competed for Canada at the London 2012 Summer Olympics, and on the world stage at several Davis Cup events.
There are still doubts over the world number four’s participation, though, as he recovers from a wrist injury which forced him to pull out of the French Open and miss Wimbledon.
Italy’s former French Open champion Francesca Schiavone has turned down the opportunity while former world number ones Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka will also be missing.
Stars – including golfer Rory McIlroy and tennis aces Milos Raonic and Simona Halep – have pulled out of the Games due to fears over the mosquito-borne virus, which can cause birth defects, including tots being born with tiny heads.
ITF president David Haggerty said he completely understands the concerns over the Zika virus, but pointed out that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has assured to provide all the necessary precautions to the athletes, officials as well as fans.
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Jordan Spieth withdrew this week from the Olympics, citing Zika.
