The highest profile golfer pulls out of Rio Olympics over Zika virus

World number one golfer Jason Day has pulled out of this summer’s Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro due to concerns over the Zika virus.

The Games have been hit by a number of high-profile withdrawals due to the issue, with Rory McIlroy also announcing last week that he will not compete.

Day has now become the latest player to pull out, insisting that he cannot put his family at risk for the sake of the sport.

“It is with deep regret I announce that I will not be competing in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games this coming August in Rio de Janeiro,” Day said in a statement.

“The reason for my decision is my concerns about the possible transmission of the Zika virus and the potential risks that it may present to my wife’s future pregnancies and to future members of our family.”