Jordan Spieth 'uncertain' about Rio participation amid Zika fears

Image
ANI London
Last Updated : Jun 29 2016 | 9:57 PM IST

World number two golfer Jordan Spieth has said he is uncertain about his participation in the upcoming Rio Olympics due to the increasing fears over the Zika virus.

The 22-year-old American also admitted to feeling added pressure especially in the wake of top-rated players pulling out of the Olympics in Rio de Janerio citing concerns over the Zika virus, the Guardian reported.

Spieth, a two-time major champion, however, added that he would weigh up all the issues before making a final decision.

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.

On Tuesday, world number one Jason Day 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.

Explaining the rationale behind his decision, Day had 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.

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.

*Subscribe to Business Standard digital and get complimentary access to The New York Times

Smart Quarterly

₹900

3 Months

₹300/Month

SAVE 25%

Smart Essential

₹2,700

1 Year

₹225/Month

SAVE 46%
*Complimentary New York Times access for the 2nd year will be given after 12 months

Super Saver

₹3,900

2 Years

₹162/Month

Subscribe

Renews automatically, cancel anytime

Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans

Exclusive premium stories online

  • Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors

Complimentary Access to The New York Times

  • News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic

Business Standard Epaper

  • Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share

Curated Newsletters

  • Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox

Market Analysis & Investment Insights

  • In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor

Archives

  • Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997

Ad-free Reading

  • Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements

Seamless Access Across All Devices

  • Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app

More From This Section

First Published: Jun 29 2016 | 9:57 PM IST

Next Story