Rickie Fowler lines up his putt on the 17th hole as a train goes by during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Chambers Bay on Thursday, June 18, 2015 in University Place, Wash. “I’m looking forward to showing [Bubba] around a little bit”. They were the two Americans who would have qualified no matter who withdrew for whatever reason.
Advertisement
“I wouldn’t say they are upset but I have had a very warm welcome from fellow United States athletes and other athletes around the village, nearly thanking me for being here”.
That’s partly because the world’s four top players – Australian Jason Day, Americans Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland – and many others made a decision to skip Rio, most citing fears of possible future birth defects linked to the mosquito-borne illness Zika.
For those who did make the trip to Rio, however, the reality has been much different than the picture that had been painted.
Reed, separately, planned to attend Tuesday’s swimming events.
Reed, who only found himself among the USA squad following the withdrawals of Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth, said he is relishing being an Olympian.
Their active schedules would seem to dismiss preconceived security concerns. I always had a hope I could make it and to be here now is quite awesome.
Watson added: “I want to live the experience. It’s nothing new”, he said. Instead, each told a similar tale of conviction.
Kuchar says he is sure the International Olympic Committee will keep golf beyond 2020 when it reconsiders Games events next year.
“I had secretly fingers crossed, hoping players would pull out”, Kuchar said Tuesday.
Whether Spieth, Johnson, McIlroy and world No. 1 Jason Day will spend the next few days wistfully eyeing the competition from Rio will probably remain a mystery.
And it gives him a little more ammunition for his texts.
Criticizing the players who sidestepped the Games has always carried an air of arrogance, as if those judging from outside should somehow know better; the would-be Olympians are the ultimate arbiters of right or wrong.
And so far, so good, for the players who chose to courageous Rio.
“It’s unfortunate amusing circumstances this year have led to guys not participating”, Kuchar said. “I think after this year’s event, I imagine it’s going to be a big success and an easy one to keep in the rotation and continue after 2020”.
Advertisement
“I can’t say I won’t be nervous”, da Silva said.
