Thursday 4 August 2016 16:28, UK
Rafael Nadal was desperate to compete at the Rio Olympics so he could be Spain's flagbearer at the opening ceremony.
The 30-year-old had been chosen to lead out the team in 2012 in London, only for a knee injury to deny him the opportunity.
He had also been looking forward to defending his men's singles title in London, having won gold at Beijing 2008.
Although an injured left wrist forced his retirement from this year's French Open, and prevented him from taking part at Wimbledon, he has recovered sufficiently to compete in Brazil where the 14-time Grand Slam champion will represent his country in all three events.
Despite being the No 3 seed in the singles, behind Novak Djokovic (1) and reigning Olympic champion Andy Murray (2), Nadal is not expected to challenge for the gold medal.
He will also play in the men's doubles with Marc Lopez and will partner French Open champion Garbine Muguruza in the mixed.
Four years ago, Spain's basketball star Pau Gasol replaced Nadal at the opening ceremony and the man from Mallorca does not want to relinquish the honour for a second time.
Nadal, who has not played since the first week of Roland Garros in late May, said: "The Olympic Games is the most important sports event. It is unique and different.
"Clearly, it's another plus to be the flagbearer and I have already had to give it up in London.
"To give it up two times in a row would have been very hard and has, of course, influenced my decision to compete."
As for his injury concerns, he added: "For me, it is a source of happiness to be here because two weeks ago I just didn't think I would have the opportunity to take part in the Olympics.
"Chances to be in the Olympics are very few. I missed out on London so, for me, the main thing is just to be here."
