PHILADELPHIA– Fears of the Zika virus are beginning to infect the thinking of some international basketball stars in regards to participating in the Rio Olympics this summer.
Pau Gasol, the 7-1 center who led Spain to a pair of silver medal finishes in 2008 and 2012 summer games, is openly talking about skipping the event out of concern for his health and the health of his family. He said anyone going to Brazil should “think about “whether it is worth the risk.
Gasol said he is not the only Spanish athlete who feels this way.
“I’m thinking about whether or not to go,” Gasol said in an interview in Madrid. “Just like very athlete, or any other person considering going to Rio, should be thinking about it.”
“Some of these athletes are planning to have children in the near future and this could affect them, it could affect the health of their kids and their wives.”
Brazil has been ravaged by Zika, the mosquito borne virus linked to severe birth defects and possible neurological problems in adults.
Gasol is calling on IOC officials and health organizations to come forward with more “clear information” about the risk athletes could be facing.
Gasol specifically mentioned the call from 150 health specialists from around the world last week to consider postponing or moving the August 5-21 games, an option the World Health Organization rejected last week. Gasol has already contacted experts in his area to gain more information. “It’s a very delicate situation,” he said.