Anyone know the olympic ruling on 'nationality' ?

Question

Example, most people would call Maria Sharapova an American, yet she played for Russia in Federation cup, could U.S. have picked her in olympic squad ? Could Russia have invited Nastia Liuken to join their squad [ I know she would have refused ! but, could they have asked ? ]. Just curious about possible 'dual' nationalities ?

Answer 1

i believe one of your biological parents have to be born in that country.

Answer 2

From the IOC site -

Athletes with dual nationality may compete for the country of their choice.

However, if they have already represented one country either at the Games or another major sports event, they may not compete for a different country before a period of three years has elapsed.  

Answer 3

Nastia Liuken doubt it, she's a naturalize citizen of the U.S. and lived there almost her whole life.

Sharpova still has her Russian citizenship and has only been in the US since age 7.

Answer 4

A person can have dual citizenship buts its up to the player to decide which country they want to represent.

But I do think Maria Sharapova should be competing under America as she trains in the US. At least she can give something back to a country that has shaped her tennis career. I dont think she would get as far without US resources.  plus she doesn't sound russian at all.