Milos Raonic announced on Friday that he has decided to withdraw from competing at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
“It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my withdrawal from participation in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games,” said Raonic. “After much deliberation with my family and coaches, I am making this decision for a variety of health concerns including the uncertainty around the Zika virus. This was a difficult, personal choice and I do not wish for it to impact the decision of any other athlete heading to the Games. I would like to thank Tennis Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee for their ongoing support. 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. I look forward to cheering on Team Canada this summer.”
“We fully respect Milos’ decision as we are sure this is not one he made easily,” said Kelly Murumets, president and CEO, Tennis Canada. “Milos represents Canada proudly week after week around the world and we look forward to future opportunities for him to join Team Canada again on the court.”
Pending invitation by the International Tennis Federation and Canadian Olympic Committee approval, Tennis Canada will nominate Daniel Nestor to replace Raonic in the men’s doubles draw to partner with Vasek Pospisil.
