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The 149th Open has been hit by the withdrawals of Masters champions Hideki Matsuyama and Bubba Watson, both of whom cannot make it to the Royal St George’s due to Covid-19 issues.
By Keith Jackson
Last update: 07/21/11 2:45 p.m.
Hideki Matsuyama was forced to withdraw from the Open
Masters champions Hideki Matsuyama and Bubba Watson became the last players to retire from the 149th Open.
Matsuyama’s preparation for the final major of the year was disrupted after testing positive for Covid-19 at Rocket Mortgage Classic last week, and he continued to test positive during his self-isolation.
The Japanese star insists he feels fit and healthy and has no symptoms of coronavirus, but has ruled out going to Royal St George’s with Watson, who has been in “close contact of an individual who tested positive for Covid-19 “.
Matsuyama tested positive for Covid-19 last week
“I feel good but I haven’t been able to train for the Open,” Matsuyama said via a statement released by the R&A.
“Combining this with the difficult trip to the UK, my team and I decided it was best to step aside to ensure everyone’s safety. I miss the Open very much and look forward to playing again in St Andrews! ‘next year.
“I want to thank the many golf fans for their continued concern and support as I strive to get back to the game I love as soon as possible.”
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Five players have now pulled out of the Open this weekend, Matthew Wolff, KH Lee and Danny Lee withdrew on Saturday while Kevin Na pulled out last week due to various travel restrictions. Former Players champion Si Woo Kim and fellow South Korean Sungjae Im have also chosen to focus on the Olympics next month.
Many players have expressed disapproval of the strict protocols in place for the Championship, which require all competitors to join the tournament “bubble”, stay in licensed accommodation and be limited to a support group of four people under. the same roof.
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Players will not be permitted to visit local stores, bars or restaurants in accordance with government health and safety guidelines in place for the week.
Matsuyama was replaced by Harold Varner III and Watson’s place now goes to Brendan Steele, leaving John Catlin, Adam Long and Sam Horsfield as the next three players on the reserve roster.
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