Federer and Sharapova Seeking First-time Olympic Glory

Posted February 20, 2008 at 08:15 PM by Rich Rodriguez

Section: Beijing 2008, Events, Tennis

Tennis superstars Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova have their eyes on the top prize at this year’s Olympic Games. Top-ranked Federer, who captured a record fourth consecutive Laureus Sportsman of the Year award earlier this week, entered both the 2000 Sydney and 2004 Athens Games but never came away with a medal. The Swiss stylist has made Beijing a top priority this season and holds fond memories of his past Olympic experiences. “[...] in 2004 in Athens I carried the flag for Swizerland which was a very big honour for me leading the Swiss delegation into the Olympic stadium and that’s one of the reasons the Olympics will always stay one of the big goals of my career,” said Federer.

Newly-crowned Australian Open champion Maria Sharapova is also looking forward to representing her home country of Russia at the Summer Games. When asked if she’d take another Wimbledon title (she won in 2004) or an Olympic gold, the answer was clear. “I think because I already have a Wimbledon title, I’d take the Olympic gold medal,” said the 20-year old. “I think for tennis players it’s just incredible to be a part of it (the Olympics).”

The Olympic year always remains a difficult challenge for tennis players looking to capture the elusive gold medal, and this year is no exception. The Summer Games, which is scheduled from August 8th - 24th, is sandwiched between two of tennis’ Grand Slams - Wimbledon and the US Open. Wimbledon ends on July 6th while the US Open begins one day after the closing of the Olympics on August 25th.

Sources and for more information: [The Age][Sporting Life][Reuters]