Thursday 8 December 2016 10:41, UK
The first round of the Dubai Ladies Masters has been suspended after caddie Max Zechmann collapsed and died later in hospital.
After the incident on the 13th hole, Zechmann, who was working with Frenchwoman Anne-Lise Caudal, was attended to by the on-site medical team.
The caddie, who had previously worked with Marcus Brier and Marcel Siem, was then taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Ladies European Tour CEO Ivan Khodabakhsh said: "Everyone at the Ladies European Tour is extremely shocked and saddened by this sudden death and therefore we have taken the decision to suspend first-round play as a mark of respect.
"On behalf of our membership, we offer heartfelt condolences to the individual's family and loved ones."
Thomas Bjorn, who will captain Europe at the 2018 Ryder Cup, told social media: 'Dreadful news from Dubai this morning. Thoughts are with loved ones and everyone involved. RIP'
Finland's Mikko Ilonen said: 'We've lost another great guy.. RIP Big Max.'
Fellow caddie Gary Marshall said: 'R.I.P Big Max Zechmann. A true gentleman. Well done @LETgolf for your act of respect. Sad days.'
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of Golf in Dubai said: "We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of this caddie. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace."
The first round will resume on Thursday and the tournament will now be played over 54 holes.
