Auger-Aliassime is last hope for Canada as Olympics draws closer

With the tennis event at the Olympic Games set to kick off in a few days, Team Canada will be featuring a depleted team with Felix Auger-Aliassime being their only hope at winning a medal.

Compatriot Denis Shapovalov announced he would not be competing prior to this year's Wimbledon, while Bianca Andreescu announced her withdrawal on the ladies side a week ago, citing covid concerns as the deciding factor.

Nonetheless, Auger-Aliassime seems determined to represent his country in Tokyo. The 20-year old has been in great form over the grass-court season, defeating Roger Federer in Halle and reaching the quarterfinals at Wimbledon.

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“We are expecting strong performances from our athletes and we have some opportunities to medal,” said Tennis Canada’s senior vice president of Development Hatem McDadi. “Felix is playing some of his best tennis right now, so will be a real threat in singles and doubles at Tokyo as he builds off his momentum.”

Although Andreescu will not be participating, countrywoman Leylah Fernandez could give Canadian's reason to rejoice as she will be competing in Tokyo. The 18-year old has had an impressive season, lifting the title in Monterrey earlier this year.