Tunisia heads to Paris with smaller Olympic team than usual: no Hafnaoui, Jabeur

Tunisia will send its smallest delegation in two decades to the Paris Olympics, missing its star athletes, swimmer Ahmed Hafnaoui and tennis player Ons Jabeur, due to health issues. Only 26 athletes have qualified, compared to 63 for Tokyo, due to financial constraints and tougher qualification standards, Tunisian Olympic chief Mehrez Boussiane told Reuters.

"In some sports, being a continental champion is no longer enough to qualify," Boussiane said. Economic difficulties have affected the training and development of athletes, leading to limited participation. Jabeur, absent due to knee problems, and Hafnaoui, recovering from an unspecified physical injury, are notable absences. Hafnaoui, who won gold in Tokyo, is expected to return stronger for future Olympics.

Despite these challenges, Tunisia hopes for success in taekwondo, with Mohamed Khalil Jendoubi and Firas Katoussi leading the charge. Boussiane remains optimistic, highlighting anticipated support of the Tunisian community in France for the 2024 Games.