Every player that withdraws is bad news for the game of golf as it makes its return to the Olympics after a 104-year hiatus, but when it’s the world number one, it’s an even bigger – if unexpected – blow.
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The chief organizer of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics says security is his top concern, well ahead of the Zika virus.
“The OCI is disappointed to hear of the news that Shane Lowry is withdrawing from Rio 2016 due to his concerns over the Zika virus”, the organization said.
“I have always placed my family in front of everything else in my life”, added 28-year-old Day.
Jason Day, like numerous others, cites his concerns over the zika virus as the primary reason for skipping Rio.
Both cited worries over health risks to their families as a reason for the decision, echoing the comments of four-time major victor Rory McIlroy who also withdrew last week.
The mosquito-borne virus causes flu-like symptoms in adults, and rarely requires hospital treatment.
“Today’s announcement represents another exciting milestone on rugby sevens’ road to Rio 2016”, said World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset. And on the heels of a historic title at the prestigious London Sevens last year, the American squad, led by Carlin Isles, the handsome 26-year-old American star from OH is poised to make sevens an up-and-coming sport in America.
Last month, the number of Zika cases among pregnant women more than tripled, and while a gold medal could be the ultimate goal, many hopeful Olympians are keeping a close eye on the topic.
According to The Canadian Press, the top two teams in each pool along with the two best third-place teams will advance to the Olympic quarter-finals.
“As the team leader I’ve done everything I can to instil the Olympic passion into all of our potential Olympians over the a year ago or so but I totally understand the decisions our guys have made”, Baker-Finch said.
Lowry, who had been in pole position to win his first major title at the US Open in Oakmont but finished joint second, said he felt he would be putting his “family’s health at risk by being in Brazil at the current time”.
With former Masters victor Adam Scott also out, Australia would not have an eligible player inside the top 75 if the team was selected on this week’s rankings.
First, it was Adam Scott withdrawing, primarily based on scheduling issues.
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The sport has not been part of the games since 1904 in St. Louis.
