Jason Day joins Rio Olympics exodus over Zika fears

World number one golfer Jason Day has joined the chorus of players pulling out of the upcoming Rio Olympics over increasing fears about the Zika virus.

Explaining the rationale behind his decision, the 28-year-old Australian stated that he was concerned about the possible transmission of the Zika virus and the potential risks it may present to his wife's future pregnancies and to future members of his family, the Guardian reported.

Brazil has been most affected by the mosquito-borne virus that has spread rapidly through Latin America and the Caribbean. It is known to cause the head-shrinking microcephaly and other birth defects.

With this decision, Day has joined a host of golfers to withdraw from this year's Olympics, which includes Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, Marc Leishman and Vijay Singh.

Golf, which is making its return in Olympics after a century-long absence, has now lost two of its biggest stars after the withdrawal of four-time major champion McIlroy last week.