Olympia 2021 in Tokyo without spectators: a lot of understanding

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Tennis pro Nick Kyrgios does not want to play in front of empty ranks

Photo: Alberto Pezzali / AP

Australia's tennis star Nick Kyrgios has canceled his participation in the Olympic Games.

The spectator ban imposed on Thursday was an important factor in his decision, the Australian said on Friday.

Most recently, Kyrgios, who was injured during the Wimbledon tournament last week, had already expressed doubts.

“The idea of ​​playing in front of empty stadiums just doesn't suit me.

He never has, "he wrote on social media:" I don't want to take the opportunity of a healthy Australian athlete who is ready to represent the country. "

The German Olympic team reacted with understanding to the exclusion of spectators.

“Of course, it loses some atmosphere.

But in view of the increasing numbers, this decision is understandable and understandable, "said Florian Wellbrock, who is hopeful about swimming.

“We athletes will lack that support, but we'll make the best of it and cheer each other on.

The sporting spirit remains unbroken, «said long jump world champion Malaika Mihambo.

For many athletes, a cancellation would have been "a huge shock," said gymnast Elisabeth Seitz on Thursday evening in the ZDF "heute-journal". She was "very grateful" that the games actually took place. “And that's a huge gift for us athletes. And still we try to just do our best and enjoy everything as much as possible, even if the games are different than usual, «said the 27-year-old. Ghost games are the right decision: "Because in the end, safety always comes first."

American 100m hurdles world record holder Kendra Harrison said the absence of fans would make little difference in her battle for her first Olympic medal.

“When you measure yourself against the best in the world, you don't really care who's in the stands,” Harrison told Kentucky's Spectrum News 1. “You just worry about going out and getting the best of your own Skills. "

Olympia in Tokyo is slated to open on July 23rd.

jan / dpa / sid