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2 December 2003
BRUSSELS – The Belgian Olympic Committee has reacted with disappointment at the announcement that tennis pro Kim Clijsters would not be attending the Olympic Games in Athens next year because she will not be allowed to wear her sponsor’s clothing.
The decision was taken by Clijsters because she had previously agreed only to wear clothes branded by her sponsor, Fila – the Olympic team and their uniforms will be sponsored by Adidas.
Clijsters’ refusal could mean Belgium will be two medals poorer. Her rival compatriot Justine Henin-Hardenne will be representing her country at the event, however.
Clijsters’ decision has led to anger in the Belgian press, accusing the number two seed of putting money before sportsmanship.
Such apparel disputes are not new to the Olympic circuit – in 1992 Michael Jordan draped the US flag over the Reebok logo of him basketball tracksuit at the Barcelona Olympics as he was under contract to Nike.
[Copyright Expatica News 2003]
Subject: Belgian news