Jason Day Withdraws From Olympics

There is yet another huge blow to golf at the Olympics as Jason Day follows Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott, Louis Oosthuizen and many more to withdraw from the 2016 Rio De Janiero Olympics

Jason Day Withdraws From Olympic Games

Golf's World Number One Jason Day has withdrawn from this summer's Olympic Games.

The Australian follows big names to announce they will be not playing in Rio De Janeiro in August - including Rory McIlroy who confirmed last week he would not be competing.

Health concerns appear to be the biggest reasons for players deciding to not compete.

The full statement from Jason Day that was released by Golf Australia follows:

“It is with deep regret I announce that I will not be competing in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games this coming August in Rio de Janeiro. The reason for my decision is my concerns about the possible transmission of the Zika virus and the potential risks that it may present to my wife's future pregnancies and to future members of our family. I have always placed my family in front of everything else in my life. Medical experts have confirmed that while perhaps slight, a decision to compete in Rio absolutely comes with health risks to me and to my family. My wife Ellie and I have been blessed with two wonderful and healthy children and our plan is to have more. While it has always been a major goal to compete in the Olympics on behalf of my country, playing golf cannot take precedent over the safety of our family. I will not place them at risk. I have informed Coach Ian Baker Finch and Stephen Pitt the CEO of Golf Australia of my difficult decision. I hope all golf and Olympics fans respect and understand my position. In closing, I would like to thank all of those who have supported me throughout my career and extend my best wishes to all participants. Especially the entire Australian Olympic Team as they pursue their dreams in Rio de Janeiro.”

There was some better news today for the event with Masters Champions Danny Willett confirming he will be taking part in the Games during his pre tournament interview at the Open de France.

We await further announcements from the players who have not commented on if they will play or not in the Olympics, but with Day and McIlroy now both confirmed as being absent the organisers will be hoping that Jordan Spieth and Dustin Johnson will travel to the event.