Tennis

Sumit Nagal, India's top-ranked tennis player, has secured his berth at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking a significant milestone in his career. Nagal's qualification is a testament to his remarkable rise in the sport, which has seen him achieve the joint-fourth highest ATP ranking among Indian men since the inception of computerized rankings in 1973.Nagal's journey to the Olympics began with his impressive performance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he became the first Indian man since Leander Paes to win a singles match at the Games. His victory over Uzbekistan's Denis Istomin in the first round was a historic moment for Indian tennis.In the past year, Nagal has continued to excel, with his ATP ranking soaring to 71. His recent triumphs include winning the Heilbronn Challenger in Germany and reaching the finals of the Perugia Challenger in Italy. These performances on clay courts were part of Nagal's strategic preparation for the Paris Olympics, which will also be played on the iconic Roland-Garros clay courts.Before the Olympics, Nagal will shift his focus to the prestigious Wimbledon Championships, where he will make his main draw debut. This opportunity will provide him with valuable experience and help him fine-tune his game ahead of the Games.Nagal's qualification for the Paris Olympics is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination. It is a proud moment for India and a significant achievement for Nagal, who has become a role model for aspiring tennis players across the country.

Ons Jabeur Withdraws from 2024 Paris Olympics Due to Knee ConcernsTunisian tennis star Ons Jabeur has announced her withdrawal from the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, citing concerns over her knee health. The former world No. 2 made the announcement on social media, expressing her disappointment but acknowledging the need to prioritize her physical well-being."After consulting with 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 jeopardize the rest of my season," Jabeur wrote in a statement.Jabeur's decision comes as a blow to Tunisia's hopes for a medal in Paris. The three-time Grand Slam finalist would have been one of the country's top contenders, having reached the quarterfinals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.Jabeur's withdrawal follows a similar decision by fellow former world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka, who also cited scheduling concerns for her absence from the Olympics."I prefer to have a little rest to make sure physically and health-wise I'm ready for the hard courts," Sabalenka said. "I'll have a good preparation before going to the hard-court season. I feel that this is safer and better for my body."Jabeur's absence from the Olympics is a significant loss for the tournament, as she is one of the most exciting and talented players on the WTA Tour. Her aggressive style of play and powerful groundstrokes have made her a fan favorite around the world.Despite her disappointment, Jabeur remains optimistic about her future and is determined to return to the court stronger than ever."I have always loved representing my country in any competition," she said. "However, I must listen to my body and follow my medical team's advice. Wishing my teammates the best in the Games, and I will be their biggest supporter."