Bulls F Pau Gasol is "considering not playing" for Spain at the Rio Games "because of the Zika virus," according to Tales Azzoni of the AP. He said that there is "too much uncertainty about the situation in Brazil and anyone going to Rio de Janeiro for the games should 'think about' whether it's worth the risk." Gasol: "It wouldn't surprise me to see some athletes deciding not to participate in the games to avoid putting their health and the health of their families at risk." He added, "I'm thinking about (whether or not to go). ... I hope the national Olympic committees and the health organizations can be as clear as possible about the risks in Brazil so athletes can decide whether or not to take risks." Gasol: "I don't think we've been told enough about it" (AP, 5/30). In Chicago, Rick Morrissey writes, "My guess is that you’ll see golf, tennis, men’s soccer and men’s basketball lose some star power as wealthy competitors decide the reward of a medal is not worth the risk of contracting the virus." Athletes who build their lives around the Olympics every four years "might be willing to roll the dice for the chance at gold and financial freedom." Morrissey: "That beach volleyball player looking for international exposure and endorsement deals? That wrestler who might strike it rich with a good performance?" Their decision "might be a lot harder than the one Gasol faces" (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 5/31).
