Tour pros have rallied around Jason Day after he withdrew from the
WGC-Dell Match Play to be with his mum, who has been diagnosed with
cancer.
The Aussie managed just six holes of his first group match against Pat Perez in Austin before walking off the course and giving a tearful press conference to make media members aware of his situation.
Read more -> Jason Day signs mega Nike Golf deal
Jason Day explains the reason behind conceding his match @DellMatchPlay. pic.twitter.com/XtYSiogt1r
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) March 22, 2017
According to Day, his mother Dening has lung cancer, which was initially thought to be terminal, and is scheduled to undergo an operation tomorrow. Day lost his dad to stomach cancer at the age of 12.
“It’s really hard to even comprehend being out there on the golf course,” said Day, who added that his form has been affected by the events. “It’s been very, very emotional as you can tell. I went through this with my dad, so I know how it feels, and it’s very hard to see my mum go through it as well.”
Day received an overwhelming amount of support from his peers, including Tony Finau, who had been in Austin all week as first reserve only to see the 2015 PGA champion bow out after six holes.
To clear up any dispute. Absolutely no hard feelings to Jason Day. My thoughts and prayers to him and his family at this time. #cancersucks
— Tony Finau Golf (@tonyfinaugolf) March 22, 2017
Further support came from the likes of Luke Donald and also Darren Clarke, who lost his first wife Heather to cancer in 2006.
Best wishes to you and your mum @JDayGolf fingers crossed mate #FUCancer
— Luke Donald (@LukeDonald) March 23, 2017
Tough to watch @JDayGolf in his press conference. Thoughts are with his mum, him and his family as she fights the battle.
— Darren Clarke (@DarrenClarke60) March 22, 2017
Praying for @JDayGolf and his family. He's always been one of my role model. He handles himself with such class on and off the course.
— Paige Spiranac (@PaigeSpiranac) March 22, 2017