Golfer Marc Leishman Withdraws From Rio Olympics Amid Zika Virus Concerns

Australian pro golfer Marc Leishman has withdrawn from consideration for this summer’s Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil, citing health concerns for his wife who continues to recover from a near-fatal illness.

Golfer Marc Leishman Withdraws From Rio Olympics Amid Zika Virus Concerns

He is the second Australian to officially withdraw from the games after Adam Scott. Leishman, 32, was in line for selection alongside world No. 1 Jason Day (also Australian) after Scott said he would not be competing in the games. Scott also said he wants to focus on the PGA Tour.

“It is with deep regret that I have informed Golf Australia that I will be unable to represent my country in the upcoming 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Brazil,” Leishman said.

“Many of you may know that last April my children and I almost lost my wife, Audrey, to toxic shock syndrome,” he continued. “Since then Audrey has been prone to infection and is far removed from 100 percent recovery of her immune system. We have consulted with Audrey’s physician and due to her ongoing recovery from toxic shock and potential risks associated with the transmission of the Zika virus, it was a difficult yet easy decision not to participate.”

The mosquito-borne virus, centered in north-east Brazil, has been declared a global public health emergency as it spreads throughout South America. It is being linked with thousands of babies born with underdeveloped brains.

Leishman, the world No. 35, missed the 2015 Masters to remain by her side when she was given just a five percent chance of survival. He said he hoped people would be understanding about his decision, amidst heavy criticism of Scott for his withdrawal from golf legends like Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus and Olympic legend Dawn Fraser.

“I cannot risk placing her health in jeopardy,” Leishman added. “The Masters and the Olympics are the two biggest tournaments to which a golfer can be invited; however, my family will always come before golf.”

Golf returns to the Olympics for the first time in 112 years, with teams to be finalized on July 11 based on world rankings. Marcus Fraser (63rd), Matt Jones (71st), Scott Hend (76th), Steven Bowditch (96th), John Senden (103rd) and Cameron Smith (109th) are the players with a chance of making a move into the team. Other big names like Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy are also set to participate.

South Africans Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel will also miss the games, as will Fijian triple major-winner Vijay Singh. 

PHOTO: AUSTIN, TX – MARCH 23: Marc Leishman of Australia watches his tee shot on the sixth hole during the first round of the World Golf Championships-Dell Match Play at the Austin Country Club on March 23, 2016 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)