It was only a matter of time when it comes down to it — once one star drops out, it’s not a massive surprise when his peers end up following suit and doing the same. Well, at least it was rather predictable with regard to the top-ranked male golfers in the world and their decision to take a pass on competing in next month’s Olympics in Rio.
During the International Golf Federation press conference Monday at Royal Troon, where the Open Championship is being held this week, President Peter Dawson announced that Jordan Spieth, the world no. 3 and two-time major champion, withdrew from the participating in golf’s return to the Olympics, citing the Zika virus as part of the reason.