Tokyo Olympics: Australia's Nick Kyrgios Confirms His Withdrawal

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios confirmed his withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics, saying a ban on spectators attending the Games was a major factor in his decision to quit.

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios confirmed his withdrawal from the Tokyo Olympics Friday, saying a ban on spectators attending the Games was a major factor in his decision to quit. Kyrgios had already cast doubt on his participation when he pulled out of Wimbledon injured last week, despite being named in Australia's 11-strong tennis team. After previously complaining about quarantine restrictions at the Games, the 26-year-old said he did not want to take part if fans were not present. "The thought of playing in front of empty stadiums just doesn't sit right with me. It never has," he posted on social media.  "I wouldn't want to take the opportunity away from a healthy Aussie athlete ready to represent the country." Japanese officials announced the ban on spectators because Tokyo is under a state of emergency throughout the Games, as the capital attempts to contain a surge of infections.