Stan Wawrinka out of Rio Olympics due to back injury

The world number four Stan Wawrinka has pulled back from the Rio Olympics 2016 because of a back injury.

Switzerland’s world number four Stan Wawrinka becomes the fifth high profile player to pull out of the Rio Olympics. He has withdrawn from the big event as he worsened his back injury during the Rogers Cup in Canada.

Counting Wawrinka five players of the men’s top-10 list will not participate in Rio. Roger Federer (3), Tomas Berdych (8), Milos Raonic (7) and Dominic Thiem (10) have already withdrawn from the big event.

“I would like to have witnessed my third Olympic Games,” Wawrinka said. “This will not be possible now.”

A statement issued by Wawrinka’s management company said: “After a medical examination by his doctor in Geneva, the current world number four has to withdraw from the Olympic Games which will start in Rio de Janeiro later this week.

“Stan Wawrinka felt increasing pain during the tournament in Toronto and therefore travelled back to Switzerland in order to consult with his doctor for a complete check-up.

“Following analyses and a MRI scan, local overstress was discovered and he was advised to reduce his physical activity for an undetermined period during which he will undergo further examinations.”

Wawrinka exit is another blow for the Switzerland team after withdrawal of world no 3 Roger Federer with a knee injury.

Wawrinka said: “I’m very sad. I was really excited about playing in Rio. After Beijing and London I was very much looking forward to playing in my third Olympic Games. I wish all the Swiss athletes the best of luck throughout the coming weeks.”