Caitlin Clark insists she is not ‘bummed’ at missing out on the Olympics, despite having to watch from the sofa as her WNBA rivals compete in Paris.

Clark, the biggest star in women’s basketball, was controversially left off the Team USA roster for the Games in France this summer.

The No 1 draft pick has instead enjoyed a brief break during her WNBA rookie season, during which she has been reading, relaxing – and following the action from afar.

Clark has previously said it would be a ‘dream’ to compete in the Olympics but she said this snub would serve as motivation ahead of the Los Angeles Games in 2028.

When asked if she was ‘bummed’ not to be in Paris, Clark said: ‘No, I think the break has definitely been good.

The Indiana Fever star is back on the practice court after a brief break from the WNBA

‘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.

‘In four years you can be there and four years comes fast. That’s your time in college… it shows you that you have to start working now if you want that to be your dream in four years. That’s it for me – work hard and hopefully you can be there.’

The Indiana Fever star, who has returned to practice, added: ‘I’ve watched a good amount of it. I watched the USA women yesterday – that was fun. I watched USA men. I tried to watch as much as I can… maybe (coach) Christie (Sides) should cancel practice so I can watch more!’

Without the former Iowa star, Team USA will head into its second group game on Thursday against Belgium after a blowout 102-76 win over Japan.

Clark is back on the practice court with the Fever this week after enjoying a short break – her first real vacation since sophomore year of college.

Without the former Iowa star, Team USA secured a blowout 102-76 win over Japan on Monday

 ‘The refresh from every standpoint is really healthy and something I needed,’ she said. ‘I read a book, I wasn’t on my phone much, it was really nice. I just relaxed – it was weird for sure,’ she said.

Clark admitted she was ‘exhausted’ – mentally, emotionally and physically – after a dramatic rookie season. She also took the chance to soak up the sun.

‘I’m still super pale, I’m still deprived of the sun,’ she joked.

‘But I’m going to try to play more golf over the break, I haven’t been out there yet this year. I have new clubs I need to break in and see how they swing.’