[Golf Topic] PGA Tour "Strengthens COVID-19 Prevention Measures"... Simpson Tests 'Negative'

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] ○…The PGA Tour is strengthening its COVID-19 prevention measures...

On the 28th (Korean time), it announced that "starting from the Rocket Mortgage Classic held in Detroit, USA on the 2nd of next month, only players, caddies, and related personnel who have tested negative for COVID-19 on-site will be allowed access to tournament facilities." Previously, players and caddies awaiting COVID-19 test results were allowed to practice outdoors. "Those traveling on charter flights will also undergo additional testing, and prize money will be withheld from players who violate the guidelines," the statement explained.

The situation has become critical due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. Nick Watney (USA) tested positive for the first time on the PGA Tour last week at the RBC Heritage, and Cameron Champ (USA) was diagnosed positive ahead of this week's Travelers Championship. Denny McCarthy (USA) withdrew just before the 2nd round after testing positive. Brooks Koepka (USA) and Graeme McDowell (Northern Ireland) also skipped tournaments due to their caddies testing positive.

RBC Heritage champion Webb Simpson (USA) said, "I heard that a family member tested positive for COVID-19," and stayed at home. Later, he relieved concerns by sharing on social media that "all family members tested negative." Jason Day (Australia) fortunately tested negative before the 3rd round of the Travelers Championship. It is interesting that Day played alone, leaving his originally scheduled group. He added 1 under par to stand tied for 49th place (5 under par, 205 strokes).

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