"I just can't relate to or understand it": Heather Watson befuddled at Emma Raducanu snubbing Paris Olympic Games
WTAFriday, 26 July 2024 at 07:56
Emma Raducanu won't play at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and was part of a leading list of absentees also including Aryna Sabalenka and Ons Jabeur who will not play over the next week in Paris. Heather Watson who would've been her teammate in Paris doesn't understand the move.
Watson who is rooming with fellow Brit, Katie Boulter like the current British Number One spoke to the Guardian about the decision and was befuddled about it mainly as her view point on the Olympic Games is one that it is an honour and one that she works towards over the four years. So in her view, it is incomprehensible not to attempt to play in Paris like Raducanu who cited the need to pick and choose events and also that she'll target the next Olympic Games.
A viewpoint that has been seen as semi-naive by tennis figures that wonder if she will be there in four years time. “I can’t really comprehend it, personally because the Olympics is the greatest sporting event in history. So why wouldn’t you want to be a part of that? Anyone in general who chooses not to [participate], I can’t relate," said Watson to The Guardian.
“It was the biggest goal of mine these last 12 months, to make the Olympics again,” she continued. “I have so much pride to be back here and be part of this team. Within tennis, the Olympics isn’t looked at the same by all players but I just can’t relate to or understand it.
“Katie Boulter and I were having this conversation in our room the other day, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I did everything I could to make sure I was here again. So I am very happy to be here and definitely embracing the whole experience. I can’t wait to get out on the court.”
While Katie Boulter on the other hand had an 'each to their own' point of view on Raducanu's decision not to play the Olympic Games. “We are all unique in terms of where we hold the Olympics in our priorities. For me, it is the top of the top," she said.
"I understand her decision completely with her surgeries and the change of surface. It is definitely not easy for the body. She has represented our country many times before with great pride and I’m sure she is going to do that many more.”
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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