One of the brightest young stars in tennis has been forced to withdraw from the upcoming Olympics in Tokyo as Coco Gauff has tested positive for COVID-19.
The 17-year-old was named to the team alongside Australian Open finalist Jennifer Brady, Jessica Pegula, and Alison Riske in singles as well as Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Nicole Melichar in doubles.
Gauff has had a career year in 2021, winning her second career title in Parma and reached her first Grand Slam quarterfinal at the French Open. She is currently ranked 25th in the latest WTA rankings.
Gauff releases statement on Twitter
"I am so disappointed to share the news that I have tested positive for COVID and won't be able to play in the Olympic Games in Tokyo. It has always been a dream of mine to represent the USA at the Olympics, and I hope there will be many more chances for me to make this come through in the future. I want to wish TEAM USA best of luck and a safe games for every Olympian and the entire Olympic family."
USTA Statement
"We were saddened to learn that Coco Gauff has tested positive for COVID-19 and therefore be unable to participate in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The entire USTA Tennis Olympic contingent is heartbroken for Coco.
"We wish her the best as she deals with this unfortunate situation and hope to see her back on the courts very soon. We know Coco will join all of us in rooting on the other Team USA members who will be traveling to Japan and competing in the coming days."