Jordan Spieth has become the latest in a long line of the world's top golfers to withdraw from the Rio Olympics.
The two-time Major winner joins Jason Day, Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson and Shane Lowry among the players that will skip the event next month.
Just announced by Peter Dawson, Jordan Spieth will not be playing in the #Olympics. Matt Kuchar is now qualified. pic.twitter.com/hm6ymmu8gJ
— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) July 11, 2016
International Golf Federation president Peter Dawson announced Spieth's decision this afternoon at the British Open.
Spieth had become increasingly uncertain of his involvement in Rio in light of fears over the Zika virus.
"And if I feel like there's any significant threat, then is it worth it? Probably not," he had commented recently according to ESPN.
Golf was making its return at the Olympics for the first time in 112 years.
However, Rickie Fowler and Patrick Reed will represent the United States in Rio, as will Bubba Watson who is now the highest-ranked golfer to take part.
With Spieth withdrawing from US selection, Matt Kuchar now qualifies.
Ireland are set to be represented by Padraig Harrington and Seamus Power, after McIlroy, Lowry and Graeme McDowell all became unavailable for selection.
