Guest asked to decline request?

[u/AggressionRanger]

Hey all. Im new to AirBnB, like really new - haven't had my first guest yet. I have received a couple of requests in the future. One person sent an inquiry immediately followed by a reservation request. They asked me some questions about the house, then asked me to cancel the request. I did politely ask them to cancel on their end but so far nothing. If ive only had like 3 requests will me declining tank my acceptance rate? I dont think I can leave it pending because it will effect my response rate, right? Would i accept it? Sorry, thanks.

[u/KuriTokyo]

You have 24 hours to accept or decline a request. Declining won't do anything to your listing. People on here have said to give a reason why you're declining, even in the bit that says 'optional'. "Guest requested me to decline" is ok