Despite his incredible walk-off eagle at Lake Tahoe last year, Stephen Curry will not defend his title at the American Century Championship this summer. The four-time NBA champion stunned the world with a putt from “three-point distance” to claim the championship in 2023, becoming the first active athlete in nearly 25 years to win the event. Curry had also delivered a hole-in-one the day before, cementing his magical week. However, this year he will be unable to replicate that success.

Instead, Curry will focus on representing Team USA on the basketball court at the Paris Olympics. In a statement, he expressed both disappointment at not being able to defend his title and excitement at the opportunity to pursue his first Olympic gold medal.

“I’m disappointed that I won’t be able to defend my title at the American Century Championship in Tahoe this summer, but the chance to represent my country and, hopefully, win an Olympic gold medal for the first time at the 2024 Games in Paris is an opportunity that I simply could not pass up,” Curry stated. “I look forward to returning to the shores of Lake Tahoe and creating more memories next July and in subsequent years. In the interim, I know that Dell and Seth will represent the Curry family well in my absence, but if one of them doesn’t come home with another trophy for our mantel, I will be highly disappointed!”

NBC Sports, the tournament organizers, expressed similar sentiments, acknowledging the disappointment of Curry’s absence while recognizing the importance of his Olympic pursuit. Jon Miller, President of NBC Sports Acquisitions and Partnerships, stated, “We’ve discovered that the only thing Stephen Curry can’t do is be in two places at once. Representing our country at the Olympics and going for gold is a proud priority to support. We wish Team USA and our entire Olympic contingent well and look forward to having Steph defend his American Century title in 2025.”

Although Curry will be absent from Lake Tahoe this year, his determination and competitive spirit will be with him in Paris as he aims to add Olympic gold to his storied career. Fans and tournament organizers alike will eagerly anticipate his return to the American Century Championship in 2025.