Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama has withdrawn from The Open at Royal St George's after his recent COVID-19 diagnosis and inability to practice properly in time for the year's final major, the Japanese golfer said on Sunday.
Matsuyama has been self-isolating since testing positive during the Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit on July 2. He is currently asymptomatic but subsequent PCR tests have continued to show positive results.
"I'm feeling fine but haven't been able to practice in preparation for The Open," Matsuyama said in a statement released by the R&A ahead of the tournament, which begins on Thursday.
"Combining that with the difficult travel to the UK, my team and I have decided it's best to withdraw to ensure everyone's safety.
"I feel badly missing The Open and look forward to playing again at St. Andrews next year. I'd like to thank the many golf fans for their continued concern and support as I strive to return to the game I love as soon as possible."
Matsuyama, who in April became the first Japanese man to win a golf major, is considered a contender to light the cauldron at the opening ceremony for the Tokyo Olympics on July 23 and is expected to compete in the golf competition at the Games from July 29.
2021 British Open favorites
Jon Rahm +650
Dustin Johnson +1100
Rory McIlroy +1100
Brooks Koepka +1400
Xander Schauffele +1600
Jordan Spieth +1800
Bryson DeChambeau +2000
Louis Oosthuizen +2000
Justin Thomas +2200
Viktor Hovland +2500
Collin Morikawa +2500
Patrick Cantlay+3300
Tyrrell Hatton +3300
Paul Casey +4000
Tony Finau +4000
Tommy Fleetwood +4000
Shane Lowry +4000
Joaquin Niemann +4000
Patrick Reed +4000
Justin Rose +4000
Lee Westwood +4000
Odds courtesy of DraftKings
