“Gutted For You”: John Millman Reacts to Alex De Minaur Withdrawing From the Tokyo Olympics 2020

In rather shocking news, Alex De Minaur has withdrawn from the Tokyo Olympics 202o. Disaster struck as Alex tested positive for COVID-19. The Australian was looking forward to joining the Olympics team alongside Wimbledon champion, Ashleigh Barty, and doubles teammate John Millman.

However, the World No. 17 will have to settle for disappointment once again. A disgruntled John took to Twitter to share his disappointment over the unfortunate news. The duo would have paired up for the men’s doubles event at the Summer Olympic Games. It is now unclear if John will hold the spot.

“We are very disappointed” – Ian Chesterman

The Australian Olympic team’s chef de mission, Ian Chesterman, broke the news to the media. “We are very disappointed for Alex. It has been his dream to represent Australia at the Olympic Games since he was a child,” Chesterman said.

“Alex undertook both the 96-hour and 72-hour PCR test as required by the Japanese authorities and unfortunately both returned a positive result,” the Australian Olympic Committee said. This naturally increases tension around the Australian camp, with other players at risk. However, the effectively used bubble has restricted other players from being exposed to any sort of danger, and that might reduce the chance of a withdrawal from them too.

Watch this story:?Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Gael Monfils, and Others with Best Shots at Wimbledon Championships 2021

“All other Australian players have tested negative. We need to protect this bubble and Alex has been caught up in that system, but it does show that the system is working and while we will miss Alex, he understands the reasons why he cannot be with us,” Chesterman said.

Disappointment at Wimbledon for Alex De Minaur

Alex faced heartbreak at the 2021 Wimbledon Championship. He was eliminated in the first round of the tournament after losing a hard-fought battle to American International, Sebastian Kroda. Hence, he was looking forward to the Olympic games to regain the form that he is highly ranked for. However, he joins fellow Australian, Nick Kyrgios, in the list of those who will miss out on the historic games.

His withdrawal leaves the Australian team with 5 men and 5 women. Wimbledon champion Ashleigh Barty will play in her first Olympics and a repeat of her recent success at Wimbledon will be expected. She is joined by former US Open Champion, Sam Stosur who will be playing in her 5th Olympic games. Both players are sure to be aiming for Gold as they take to the court, donning the proud Aussie colors.

Read more: ?Very Difficult Decision?: Victoria Azarenka Becomes the Latest Victim at Tokyo Olympics 2021