Rory McIlroy Cites Zika Concerns In Opting Out Of Rio Games

Golfer Rory McIlroy today "became one of the most high-profile sports stars to opt out" of the Rio Games because of "concerns about the Zika virus." He said it is "a risk I am unwilling to take." McIlroy: "My health and my family's health comes before anything else." McIlroy, ranked No. 4 in the world, was "scheduled to play for Ireland as golf makes its return to the Olympics for the first time since 1904." The Olympic Committee of Ireland said it was "extremely disappointed" not to have him on the team (AP, 6/22).

McIlroy's withdrawal is "a disappointing decision" for the sport. McIlory: "I trust the Irish people will understand my decision" (WASHINGTONPOST.com, 6/22). This marks "another blow" to golf's future in the Games, as McIlroy joins fellow golfers Adam Scott, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel and Vijay Singh "on the sidelines." The IOC "may not be keen to continue" with golf, "especially if more of the game's top players or major winners decide not to go" (IRISHGOLFDESK.com, 6/22).