Hideki Matsuyama Pulls Out Of The Open Following Positive Covid Test

(Image credit: Getty Images)

published 11 July 21

The Masters champion won't be featuring at Royal St George's due to a positive Covid test.

Hideki Matsuyama Pulls Out Of The Open Following Positive Covid Test

With golf's oldest Major getting underway in just under a week's time, Matsuyama joins the growing list of withdrawals for The Open (opens in new tab).

Having tested positive during the Rocket Mortgage Classic, the 29-year-old has continued to test positive during his self-isolation, despite not showing any symptoms.

In a statement issued by the R&A, Matsuyama said: "I'm feeling fine but haven't been able to practice in preparation for The Open. Combining that with the difficult travel to the UK, my team and I have decided it's best to withdraw to ensure everyone's safety.

"I feel bad for missing The Open and look forward to playing again at St Andrews next year. I'd like to thank the many golf fans for their continued concern and support as I strive to return to the game I love as soon as possible."

A number of players have already withdrawn from the Open citing different reasons.

Both Sungjae Im and Si Woo Kim announced last week that they would be skipping the Open to prepare for the Olympics which gets underway in only a few weeks time. (opens in new tab)

After claiming his first PGA Tour victory in May, K.H Lee is set to skip the event due to the birth of his child, whilst Danny Lee has withdrawn due to injury.

Kevin Na will also not be featuring at Royal St George's (opens in new tab), saying: “It was a tough decision, but for my family and me, it is best to skip the Open this year. I will be back next year. It is one of my favourite weeks and I would love to hold the claret jug one day.”

One last withdrawal is Na's fellow countryman, Matthew Wolff (opens in new tab), with his reason for skipping the event undisclosed.

With Matsuyama unable to make the trip to the coast, he will now be replaced by Harold Varner III.

Matt Cradock

Matt studied Sports Journalism at Southampton Solent University, graduating in 2019. Now a freelance writer for Golf Monthly and the PGA, he covers all aspects of the game, from Tour news to equipment testing and buyers’ guides. Taking up the game at the age of six, Matt currently holds a handicap of 3 and despite not having a hole in one…yet, he has had two albatrosses. His favourite player is Rory McIlroy, despite nearly being struck by his second shot at the 17th during the 2015 BMW PGA Championship.