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Hideki Matsuyama is the latest player to to withdraw from The Open Championship.

The Masters champion will play no part in the final men’s major of the year as he continues to battle COVID-19. 

Matsuyama tested positive for the virus prior to the second round of the Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit on July 2. The Japanese ace has been in quarantine since then and is currently symptom free. 

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Subsequent PCR tests, however, have continued to show positive results.

“I’m feeling fine but haven’t been able to practice in preparation for The Open,” said the 29-year-old. “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 badly 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.”

Matsuyama’s place in the field has been taken by American Harold Varner III.

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The next three players on the reserve list are American trio Brendan Steele, John Catlin and Adam Long.

Matsuyama is the fifth player to withdraw from the championship in the past four days, following Kevin Na, Matthew Wolff, KH Lee and Danny Lee.


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Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Deputy Editor

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