Jason Day Withdraws from Rio 2016 Olympics Golf Due to Zika Virus Concerns
Another big name will miss out on golf's return to the Olympics, as world No. 1 Jason Day announced his decision Tuesday not to partake in the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro.
The Aussie released a statement, revealing concerns regarding the Zika virus will prevent him from going for gold:
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Day joins Rory McIlroy on the sideline after the Northern Irishman withdrew from the Olympics last Wednesday amid apprehension about the Zika virus as well. ESPN.com's Jason Sobel is noticing a trend as Rio approaches:
The 28-year-old Day is the reigning PGA Championship winner, and with three wins to his credit in 2016, he may well have been the favorite in Brazil.
High-profile athletes across multiple sports have decided to pass up a chance to compete in the Olympics because of the Zika virus, and Day is among the biggest stars to do so on the heels of his eighth-place finish in the U.S. Open.
Golf hasn't been part of the Olympic program since 1904, and while there is excitement surrounding its return, Day's decision diminishes the overall quality of the field considerably.
The 2016 Olympic golf tournament has been heralded as an unofficial fifth major due to its importance, but with some of the best players in the world opting to sit out, that major feel may be absent in Rio.
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