Hideki Matsuyama may miss British Open after positive COVID-19 test

Hideki Matsuyama’s status for the upcoming British Open is suddenly in doubt. 

The reigning Masters champion withdrew from the Rocket Mortgage Classic before the second round after testing positive for COVID-19 on Friday. 

In accordance with COVID-19 protocols, Matsuyama must quarantine for 10 days, or until he records a pair of negative tests more than 24 hours apart. The British Open is slated for July 15-18, just three days after Matsuyama’s quarantine could potentially end, at the earliest. 

Matsuyama’s agent, Bob Turner, said it is too soon to know what the ramifications of the positive test will be, according to ESPN. 

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JULY 01: Hideki Matsuyama of Japan plays his shot on the ninth hole during the first round of the Rocket Mortgage Classic
Hideki Matsuyama’s status for the British Open is up in the air.
Getty Images

“It’s disappointing to receive the news and have to withdraw from the Rocket Mortgage Classic,” Matsuyama said in a statement. “I will take all the necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of all others. I appreciate and thank everyone for their concern in advance. I look forward to a full recovery and returning to competition as soon as possible.” 

It’s unclear if Matsuyama, who is ranked No. 18 in the world, is fully vaccinated. However, the PGA Tour does not test players unless they are unvaccinated or a part of a contract tracing situation. 

Matsuyama shot an opening 70 in the first round at Detroit Golf Club on Thursday.

source: nypost.com