Caitlin Clark, one of the biggest stars in women’s basketball, has opened up about watching the 2024 Olympics from home after being controversially left off the Team USA roster. Despite the disappointment of not competing in Paris, Clark insists she isn’t “bummed” and is using this time to recharge and prepare for future opportunities, including the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
The Indiana Fever rookie, who has taken a short break from her WNBA season, has been spending her time reading, relaxing, and following the Olympic action from afar. While she acknowledges that playing in the Olympics would have been a dream come true, she’s staying positive and focusing on the future.
Clark emphasized that missing out on the 2024 Games has given her additional motivation to work towards her goal of representing the USA in 2028. “It’s certainly cool – an opportunity you only get once in four years. So I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily bummed, it gives you something to work for, something to dream of,” she said. Clark noted that four years can pass quickly, likening it to her time in college, and stressed the importance of starting now to prepare for future success.
Returning to practice with the Fever, Clark has been keeping up with the Olympic basketball games, watching both the USA women’s and men’s teams in action. She even joked about needing more time off from practice to watch more of the games.
Despite not being in Paris, Team USA has been performing well, securing a dominant 102-76 win over Japan in their first group game. Clark, who has enjoyed her first real vacation since her sophomore year of college, admitted that the break has been refreshing. “The refresh from every standpoint is really healthy and something I needed,” she shared. During her time off, she took a step back from technology, spent time reading, and tried to relax, which she described as “weird” after such a demanding rookie season.
Clark also mentioned feeling “exhausted” both mentally and physically after her whirlwind rookie year but is eager to get back into the swing of things. She plans to play more golf during her break, joking that she’s still “super pale” and hasn’t had much time in the sun. With new clubs in hand, she’s looking forward to hitting the golf course as she continues to balance rest with preparation for her return to the court.
