Australian Marc Leishman has withdrawn from the field for the Olympics in Rio because of his concerns about the Zika virus.

The 32-year-old says he is concerned about the risks of transmitting the virus to his wife, who has a poor immune system.

"Many of you may know that last April my children and I almost lost my wife, Audrey, to toxic shock syndrome. We have consulted with Audrey’s physician and due to her ongoing recovery from toxic shock and potential risks associated with the transmission of the Zika virus, it was a difficult yet easy decision not to participate," he confirmed.

His compatriot, Adam Scott, also withdrew from the Rio Games last month.