Gulbis recovering from sickness

Natalie Gulbis withdrew from the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup, the LPGA’s first domestic event of the season, as she recuperates from malaria. Gulbis originally became ill in Singapore and pulled out of the HSBC Women’s Champions due to flu-like symptoms, which later were identified as malaria. 

“Natalie originally became ill in Singapore and she was treated and medically cleared to fly home,” according to a joint statement released by the LPGA and IMG. “Natalie continues to be treated at home and is expected to be at full strength in three weeks. Natalie’s well-being is a top priority for both the LPGA and IMG, and steps continue to be taken to ensure the well-being of Natalie and all the players on the LPGA Tour now and for future events. LPGA doctors have been consulted and believe she is on appropriate medications, under great care, and her prognosis is excellent.”

The popular golfer has been practicing in hopes she would be well enough to play in Phoenix this week, and she will now turn her attention to preparing for the Kraft Nabisco Championship, the LPGA’s first major of the year, April 4-7th.

Gulbis has said that contracting malaria, which is a mosquito-borne infectious disease, will not deter her from returning to Asia.

Note to everyone: bug spray is your friend. The mosquitoes over there are vicious (clearly).

Best wishes to Natalie for a speedy recovery.

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