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Tennis star Alex de Minaur has contracted coronavirus and been forced to withdraw from the Australian Olympic team.
The devastating news was announced Friday morning by the Australian Olympic Committee, with Chef de mission Ian Chesterman revealing that de Minaur was “shattered” over the news.
“We are very disappointed for Alex and he is shattered, not being able to come,” Mr Chesterman told reporters.
“It has been his dream to represent Australia at the Olympic Games since he was a child, but he sent his best wishes for the team.”
De Minaur had a positive test and underwent mandatory 92-hour and 72-hour pre-tests, Mr Chesterman said.
It is unclear if de Minaur’s doubles partner John Pearce will maintain his spot on the team.
“We do know that no other tennis players have had physical contact with Alex since he left Wimbledon on July 5, where he tested negative,” Mr Chesterman said.
“All other Australian players have tested negative sense.”
He said while the situation was unfortunate, it was testament to the “bubble” system working effectively.
“We need to protect this bubble and Alex has been caught up in that system, but it does show that the system, but it does show that the system is working and while we will miss Alex, he understands the reasons why he cannot be with us.”
