Schwartzel to miss Olympics

Charl Schwartzel has become the fourth high-profile golfer to confirm that he will miss this summer’s Olympic Games.

The former Masters champion has joined compatriot Louis Oosthuizen, Australian Adam Scott and Fijian Vijay Singh in sidestepping the prestigious event that is due to take place in Rio de Janeiro in August.

The world number 20 has enjoyed a fine start to the campaign after winning at both the Valspar Championship and the Tshwane Open, and his decision has annoyed South Africa’s coach for the tournament, Gary Player.

Player said: “I would have given anything to play in the Olympics. South Africa had a great team, but now obviously it will not be as good. Players withdrawing hurt the game of golf.”

South Africa’s gold medal chances have been severely dented by the confirmation of Schwartzel’s and Oosthuizen’s absences, with world number 11 Branden Grace set to be joined in the team by either Jaco Van Zyl or George Coetzee.

Player believes the absent duo will miss a great opportunity to showcase their talents on one of the biggest sporting platforms, as golf returns to the Olympics for the first time since 1904.

Player added: “Many people fought tooth-and-nail for decades to get golf back into the Olympic Games, a true worldwide effort. Golf is one of the most popular sports in the world, and our best players should be showcased on the biggest stage in sports.”

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