Andy Murray to take advice on Zika virus before decision on defending Olympic title in Rio
Novak Djokovic admitted he was concerned by the situation but said he still planned to play at the Olympics
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Andy Murray said here at the French Open that he would be seeking more information about the Zika virus before making a final decision on whether to defend his Olympic title in Rio this summer.
More than 100 scientists have signed an open letter to the World Health Organisation saying it would be unethical for the Olympics to go ahead in Rio following the outbreak of the virus, which has been linked with birth defects in thousands of babies. However, the WHO has said that the virus is not a reason to move or postpone the Games.
“A lot of people have been talking about it in the last few days,” Murray told the BBC. “I saw 100 scientists saying it would be unethical if it were to go on there. It is something I will speak to a couple of doctors about to get some advice. I plan to go, for sure, but I need to get a little bit more information before making a decision.”
Novak Djokovic admitted he was concerned by the situation but said he still planned to play at the Olympics and felt that cancelling the Games would be “unthinkable”.
He added: “Honestly, I don't know what to think any more. But I need to get informed more so I can speak more in detail about it, because for the moment I'm planning to play the Olympics. Nothing is changing.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments