Novak Djokovic explains why he thinks Jannik Sinner pulled out of the Paris Olympic Games.
The Italian is having a fantastic 2024 season which includes winning his first Grand Slam and becoming the number one player in the world.
He helped his country claim the Davis Cup for the first time since 1976 and many thought he was in the running to win an Olympic medal in the French capital.
But in the leadup to the event, Italy was dealt a huge blow to their chances of a tennis Olympic medal with the news that Sinner will no longer be taking part.
Novak Djokovic discusses Jannik Sinner’s Olympic Games withdrawal
Some of tennis’ top players are missing the Paris Olympic Games and Sinner has now joined that list. “I’m extremely sad and disappointed,” Sinner said in a statement confirming he will not play in Paris. “Competing at the Olympic Games was one of my main goals for this season.
“However, after seeing my doctors on Tuesday and waiting an extra day to give myself some more time to see if my condition would improve, things unfortunately got worse.”
Sinner received some criticism for pulling out of the Paris Games and was even accused of not caring about the Olympics and focusing solely on ranking points, which are not awarded for competing at the Games.
Djokovic, who will compete at his fifth Olympic Games in 2024, was very clear on why he thinks Sinner decided to pull out and seemingly disagreed with his detractors.
“I have seen the news, I don’t know how he feels. But I’m certain he pulled out because he is not in position to play, the 24-time Grand Slam champion said.
“I know how much he loves to play for his country, he won the Davis Cup last year. I know he loves representing Italy. So I wish him a fast recovery and we can see him soon back on the court.”
Novak Djokovic is hungry for Olympic success in Paris
Djokovic has won every major honour in tennis throughout his illustrious career, except for the Olympic gold medal.
On four previous occasions, the Serbian has tried to become Olympic champion but he has not yet been able to get over the line.
Now aged 37, the Paris Games may serve as his final opportunity to claim the prestigious piece of hardware for his country. Aware of this fact, Djokovic is determined to give his all to try and claim the last major title missing from his résumé.
“I am aware of the importance of the Olympic Games even though they are much different to what our sport is used to,” Djokovic said.
“I represent my country which has more responsibility and pressure but it’s something that I am experienced with and I am happy to do it.”
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