Australian and WNBA star Liz Cambage withdraws from Olympics, citing mental health



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Cambage, a 2021 WNBA All-Star, is averaging 14.6 points and 8.9 rebounds per game for the Aces this season.

“It’s no secret that in the past I have had mental health issues and recently I was really worried about participating in the ‘bubble’ Olympics,” Cambage said. in posts on Instagram and Twitter.

“No family. No friends. No fans. No support system outside of my team. It’s honestly terrifying for me. Last month I had panic attacks, I don’t sleep and I do not eat.

“Relying on daily medication to control my anxiety isn’t where I want to be right now. Especially competing on the world’s biggest sporting stage.

“I know myself and I know I can’t be the Liz everyone deserves to see compete for the Opals. Not right now at least. I have to take care of myself mentally and physically.”

LILY: Basketball star Liz Cambage criticizes lack of diversity in Australian Olympic team promotional photos

Prior to the announcement of Cambage’s withdrawal, an AOC spokesperson told CNN he was aware of a potential incident involving Cambage and was awaiting a report from Basketball Australia, but the organization did not provide no other details.

CNN has contacted Basketball Australia for more information, but has not received a response. The Australian team are in Las Vegas to prepare for the Olympics and are expected to face the United States later on Friday in an exhibition match.

Head of Mission Ian Chesterman had said at a previous press conference: “We have been informed by Basketball Australia that they are investigating an issue. We have not received any further reports other than that.”

The AOC says he will explore the potential of a late replacement from Cambage for the Opals team.

“Liz has made a great contribution to the Australian Olympic team in two campaigns for the Olympics. We respect her decision and wish her the best for her health,” said Chesterman.

In May, Cambage threatened to boycott the Tokyo Olympics while denouncing the lack of racial diversity in promotional photos of the Australian Olympic team.

The Olympics are scheduled to begin July 23 and run through August 8.

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