Ons Jabeur and Aryna Sabalenka have announced they will not participate in the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, citing the need to prioritize their health. Sabalenka, the world number three and reigning Australian Open champion, experienced a surprising loss to Mirra Andreeva at the French Open quarter-finals, marking her first early exit from a major since the 2022 French Open. Meanwhile, Jabeur, ranked tenth globally, has been managing a persistent knee injury that has troubled her for the past two years.
The Olympic tennis events are scheduled to be held on the clay courts at Roland Garros from July 27 to August 4, which poses a challenging surface transition for Jabeur. The US Open follows shortly after, starting on August 22. Jabeur expressed concerns on X, external about the rapid switch between playing surfaces, stating that it could exacerbate her knee issues and potentially disrupt her season.
Sabalenka also voiced the necessity of rest, especially after enduring several health challenges recently. She emphasized the importance of being physically prepared for the upcoming hard court season, including the US Open, where she was the runner-up last year.
In light of the geopolitical situation following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, athletes from Russia and Belarus, including Sabalenka, are required to compete as neutrals if they qualify. Daniil Medvedev, the Russian world number four, has confirmed his intention to compete under neutral status.
While Sabalenka plans to participate in a tournament in Berlin as part of her preparation for Wimbledon, Jabeur is likely to skip competitions on grass and hard courts around the Olympic period to safeguard her health. Wimbledon is scheduled for July 1-14, presenting another quick turnaround in playing surfaces for the athletes.
