World number five Simona Halep has announced that she will not be participating at this summer's Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

The Romanian is the first high-profile female player to pull out of the Games due to concerns over the Zika virus, which has been linked to defects in newborn babies.

She follows in the footsteps of Wimbledon runner-up Milos Raonic, who withdrew due to similar health concerns earlier today.

"I regret to announce that I have decided I will not compete in the Olympic Games taking place this summer in Rio. The reason for my decision is the concern regarding the danger posed by the Zika virus," Halep wrote in a post on Facebook.

"After several talks with doctors and my family, I concluded that the risks are too high for my career and for my health, especially as a woman.

"Family is much too important for me and I can't risk not being able to have one of my own after my career in tennis is over. I know the Olympics are a very important event and I truly regret these circumstances."

Victoria Azarenka will also miss the Games after announcing her pregnancy on Friday.