JASON DAY HAS joined the growing number of golfers to pull out of the Rio Olympics over fears of the Zika virus.
The world number one has this afternoon released a statement announcing his decision to declare himself unavailable for the Games later this summer.
He follows the lead of Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and fellow Australians Adam Scott and Marc Leishman, among others, in pulling out of the event.
Day had previously spoken of his desire to represent Australia at the Olympics but admits the risk, as slight as it is, is one he’s not willing to take.
The reigning US PGA Championship winner stressed his decision was purely health related.
“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,” Day said in a statement.
“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,” Day continued.
“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 hope all golf and Olympics fans respect and understand my position.”
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