Bucharest (AFP) – Romania’s world number five Simona Halep withdrew from the Olympics over the Zika virus on Friday, just an hour after Wimbledon runner-up Milos Raonic also pulled out, citing similar health fears.
“I regret to announce that I have decided I will not compete in the Olympic Games. The reason for my decision is the concern regarding the danger posed by the Zika virus,” 24-year-old Halep wrote on her Facebook page.
“After several talks with doctors and my family, I concluded that the risks are too high for my career and for my health, especially as a woman.
“Family is much too important for me and I can’t risk not being able to have one of my own after my career in tennis is over.
“I know the Olympics are a very important event and I truly regret these circumstances. I hope the Romanian Olympic and Sports Committee and all Romanians will respect my decision.”
Halep, a quarter-finalist at Wimbledon last week, was French Open runner-up in 2010.
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