World No 5 Simona Halep to seek further advice over Rio attendance

Simona Halep has admitted she may withdraw from this summer's Olympics due to concerns over the Zika virus.

The world No 5 will seek further medical advice over the mosquito-borne virus which has been linked to severe birth defects.

Halep, who is currently playing at Wimbledon where she reached the final two years ago, said she is planning to play in Rio but only if is 'safe to do so'.

"I have to research this virus because it's not easy to get all the information," she said. "I've asked many doctors and I have to speak to doctors again after this tournament.

"I've heard that even if you are not pregnant at the moment and you get the virus, when you get pregnant it (the virus) will activate. I'm very worried.

"I am planning to go to Rio but I have to make sure it is safe there and I am safe there. When I play tennis, my health is the most important thing.

"It's dangerous for the ladies and many sportsmen have withdrawn from Rio for this same reason. It's a real dilemma when it's about your health, so I cannot say anything now for sure."

Halep's comments follow the news that world No 1 Jason Day has followed Rory McIlroy's lead and joined the growing list of golfers to skip Rio due to fears of the Zika virus.