Every four years, fans all around the world look forward to the Summer Olympics. The games consist of 42 events, 306 venues, from 207 countries around the world. On August 5th, 2016 the Olympic Games opening ceremony officially marked the start of the Rio Olympics. With all the excitement, however, comes great fear for many of the athletes due to the Zika virus outbreak in Rio. As athletes are dropping out of the games like flies, others are left to decide whether staying is worth the risk.
The Zika virus, which has already swept through many parts of the world, poses a serious threat to the competitors of Rio 2016. Participants in all different events have reconsidered their decision to compete in the Olympics. Seven major golfers, American cyclists and tennis players have already opted out. In spite of the Zika virus, other athletes have chosen to stay in the games, although, many have voiced their concerns about the disease.
Rio 2016 will be the first Olympic Games hosting golf since 1904, but many of the all star players are dropping out. Jason Day, Adam Scott, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, Rory Mcllory, Graeme McDowell and Vijay Singh will not be participating in this year’s games. The athletes stated that the safety of their families was their primary reason for leaving. Although the World Health Organization advised women, not men, to avoid travel to countries with Zika, the athletes that have dropped out are male. The participants also stated that the fear of transmission was also a factor in their decision.
In addition, American cyclist Tejay van Garderen decided to bow out. He voiced his worries about the risks associated with the virus that could affect his pregnant wife. Garderen was the first of many to drop out due to concerns regarding the Zika outbreak.
Although most of the athletes have chosen to continue participating in the games, many coaches and competitors have spoken out about the Zika outbreak in Rio. U.S. women’s soccer goalie, Hope Solo, said that the games are not worth the risks of the virus. Similarly, Serena Williams, four-time Olympic gold medalist, said that she is going to take all the necessary precautions to protect herself as she heads to the games. Some teams have even discussed wearing “Zika proof” uniforms to protect themselves!
There are still numerous questions about the Zika virus that need answers. As doctors and scientists figure out ways to contain the Zika outbreak, one thing is for sure: the Olympics will continue to be spectacular. Despite the fact that athletes have dropped out of the competition, Rio 2016 will be just as exciting as ever.
