Marc Leishman to miss Rio Olympics due to concerns over Zika virus

By PA Sport

Image: Marc Leishman missed Masters last year due to concern over his wife's health

Australian golfer Marc Leishman has become the latest player to announce his intention not to compete in the Olympics due to concerns over the Zika virus.

Leishman's wife Audrey almost died from toxic shock syndrome last year and the world No 35 has decided against risking the trip to Rio de Janeiro.

"Last April, my children and I almost lost my wife Audrey to toxic shock syndrome," Leishman said in a statement. "Since then, Audrey has been prone to infection and is far removed from 100 per cent recovery of her immune system.

World number 7 Adam Scott explains why he won't be competing for Australia at this summer's Olympics.

"We have consulted with Audrey's physician and due to her ongoing recovery and potential risks associated with the transmission of the Zika virus, it was a difficult yet easy decision not to participate.

"I missed playing in the 2015 Masters tournament to be at her side when she was originally stricken and I cannot risk placing her health in jeopardy."

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Image: Adam Scott pulled out after criticising Olympics strokeplay format

Leishman, who lost out in a play-off for the Open at St Andrews last year, joins compatriot Adam Scott, South Africa duo Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel and Vijay Singh of Fiji in opting out of the Games where golf is included in the programme for the first time since 1904.

Scott had previously said winning an Olympic medal was nothing he had "ever aspired to do" and questioned the 72-hole strokeplay format for what he called "an exhibition event," while Oosthuizen cited "family and schedule issues". Singh also expressed concern over the Zika virus.

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PGA of Australia chief executive officer, Brian Thorburn said: "Marc didn't make his decision without a great deal of thought. Yes, it is very disappointing he won't be representing Australia in Rio, but we respect his decision to make
Audrey's health and well-being his number one priority.

"To be in a position where you have to withdraw from the Masters and the Olympics, the two most significant tournaments a professional can be invited to, all within the space of 12 months, is not a decision made in haste."

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