World number one golfer Jon Rahm and world number six Bryson DeChambeau were declared COVID-19 positive before their departure for the Tokyo Olympics and dealt a blow to golf's competition which in a few days will roll over.
Reuters reported Sunday that Rahm's second time in two months he was declared positive after being forced to withdraw from the Memorial Tournament in Ohio last June as he led by six strokes. The Spanish athlete was declared positive after undergoing final testing protocols before he left for the Tokyo Olympics, the International Golf Federation said.
The Spanish Olympic Committee said due to time constraints, it had not made any changes to its position and only Adri Arnaus would represent his country in the men's golf competition. As for DeChambeau, however, will be replaced by Patrick Reed, said USA Golf, Sunday (25/7).
Reed will join the team in Japan after completing the necessary testing protocols and is ready for the first round of competition at Kasumigaseki Country Club on Thursday.
"I am very disappointed not to be able to compete in the Olympics for Team USA," DeChambeau said in a statement. "Representing the country means a lot to me and it's an incredible honor to help this team.
"I wish the best for Team USA in Tokyo next week. I will now focus on getting back to health, and I look forward to returning to the competition once I'm allowed to do so," DeChambeau said.
Reed, the 2018 Masters winner, complemented a strong squad for the United States that also dropped British Open champion Collin Morikawa as well as 2017 PGA Championship winners Justin Thomas and Xander Schauffele.
"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to represent our country and be part of Team USA in Tokyo," Reed said. "I know how disappointed he (Bryson) is for not being able to compete, and I will do my best to represent our country," he said.
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