Nick Kyrgios Exits Tokyo Olympics After IOC's Ban On Spectators

After Thursday's announcement that fans will be prohibited from the Olympics in response to rising number of COVID infections, Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios announced he will be withdrawing from the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

A decision also made to allow for rehabbing of several injuries, Kyrgios admitted that joining the Olympic Games would ultimately not feel like the right decision.

Kyrgios hopes that his withdrawal from the Games will allow a fellow prospect from Australia earn a shot on the world stage.

"Hey Guys — I just want to let you know that I've decided to withdraw from the Olympics," announced Kyrgios on his social Thursday afternoon. "It's been my dream to represent Australia at the Olympics and I know I may never get that opportunity again. But I also know myself. The thought of playing in front of empty stadiums just doesn't sit right with me. It never has."

Recovering from a meniscus tear in his left knee and suffering abdominal pain in Wimbledon that led to an early exit, the Aussie hopes that the time away from Tokyo will help get him a step closer back to full health.

"I will also take all the time I need to get my body right. Good luck to all the Aussies competing and I'll see you back on the court real soon."

Kyrgios' response regarding a lack of spectators has resonated with fans eager to see this year's Olympic Games.

After sporting events took a hit in TV ratings last year related to the omission of live audiences — and surge in social messaging — the ban mandated by the IOC may prove to be a tremendous forced error.