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Golf

World No.3 Dustin Johnson withdraws from Olympic Games

Dustin Johnson has become the latest golfer to pull out of the Olympics due to fears over the zik...



World No.3 Dustin Johnson with...
Golf

World No.3 Dustin Johnson withdraws from Olympic Games

Dustin Johnson has become the latest golfer to pull out of the Olympics due to fears over the zika virus. 

Rory McIlroy, Jason Day, Adam Scott, Brandon Grace and Louis Oosthuizen have already withdrawn from the games in Rio this summer due to similar worries over the mosquito-borne virus.

Jordan Spieth remains undecided but if he was to withdraw it would mean the world's top four golfers would not be competing at the games in what now is a severley weakened field.

In a statement released by Johnson's agent, Johnson said he "can think of no greater honour than representing the United States in the Olympic Games.” 

“However, after much careful consideration and discussion with both my family and my team, I have made the decision to withdraw from the 2016 Olympic Games," he continued.

“This was not an easy decision for me, but my concerns about the Zika virus cannot be ignored. Paulina [Gretzky, Johnson’s fiancee] and I plan to have more children in the near future, and I feel it would be irresponsible to put myself, her or our family at risk.

“I believe I am making the right decision for me and most importantly my family. While I am sure some will be critical of my decision, my hope is that most will understand and support it. That being said, those who choose to compete in Rio certainly have my respect and best wishes for an unforgettable and safe experience.”

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