https://t.co/56c1qccqvA
— victoria azarenka (@vika7) 1626361458000
“I have many amazing memories winning the gold while competing and representing Belarus in previous Games.
“But with all the challenges we are facing as it relates to the pandemic, I know in my heart this is the right decision for myself and the team.
“I look forward to returning to the 2024 Olympics in Paris to represent Belarus.”
Azarenka did not specify if a ban on family members entering Japan, which would have included her four-year-old son Leo, was a prime factor in her decision.
World number one and Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic last weekend put his chances of playing in Tokyo at “50/50”.
The Olympics, already delayed by a year, get underway on July 23.