Less than a week before the Tokyo Olympics are set to kick off, a member of the U.S. women's gymnastics team has tested positive for coronavirus.
While the athlete has not been publicly identified, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee confirmed on Monday, July 19, that the team member is an alternate. "The health and safety of our athletes, coaches and staff is our top priority," the committee said in a statement, via USA Today. "We can confirm that an alternate on the women's artistic gymnastics team tested positive for COVID-19. In alignment with local rules and protocols, the athlete has been transferred to a hotel to quarantine. Out of respect for the individual's privacy, we cannot provide more information at this time."
According to officials, the gymnast had been training in Narita, approximately 35 miles from Tokyo, when she tested positive.
"After reviewing the implemented COVID protocols with members of the delegation, the local government determined that the affected replacement athlete and one other replacement athlete would be subject to additional quarantine restrictions," USA Gymnastics shared in a statement to E! News. "Accordingly, on Monday, the Olympic athletes moved to separate lodging accommodations and a separate training facility, as originally planned, and will continue their preparation for the Games. The entire delegation continues to be vigilant and will maintain strict protocols while they are in Tokyo."
This health news comes just one day after tennis star Coco Gauff revealed she'll sit out the Olympics after testing positive for COVID-19.
"I am so disappointed to share the news that I have tested positive for COVID and won't be able to play in the Olympic Games in Tokyo," the 17-year-old athlete tweeted Sunday, July 18. "It has always been a dream of mine to represent the USA at the Olympics, and I hope there will be many more chances for me to make this come true in the future."
Despite having to sit out of the games, she's still cheering on her fellow athletes. As she wrote on Twitter, "I want to wish TEAM USA best of luck and a safe games for every Olympian and the entire Olympic family."
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