Ons Jabeur withdraws from Paris Olympics 2024

Tennis star Ons Jabeur has announced her withdrawal from the upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024. 

The decision was taken based on the injury risks to the star from playing on clay courts — the same surface used for the French Open.

Following the encounter with the clay courts at the French Open in the quarter finals earlier, the number one Tunisian player is now switching to grass courts and soon after the Olympics, will be playing on the US Open hard courts.

Moreover, after consulting her medical team, Jabeur figured out that the rapid transition of courts after playing the French Open on the clay court might lead her to a knee injury.

“After consulting my medical team regarding attending the Olympics in Paris, we have decided that the quick change of surface and the body’s adaptation required would put my knee at risk and jeopardise the rest of my season,” Jabeur posed on social media.

“I have always loved representing my country in any competition. However, I must listen to my body,” she added.

The rapid transition of surfaces is not easy for the athletes as it can be detrimental to their health. Every court has its own characteristics, such as clay courts’ bounce and high friction, grass courts’ low bounce and speed, and hard courts’ medium bounce and pace. These surfaces require separate physical adjustments.

While being the number one Tunisian tennis player, Jabeur is also the first Arab woman to win a WTA Tour title at the 2021 Birmingham Classic. 

She has prioritised her health for the Olympics to ensure continued success in the future. Jabeur will be seen playing at Wimbledon on July 1. 

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