Since the Mizuho Americas Open began on the outskirts of New York on Thursday, ten players have already withdrawn from the tournament. Three of the players withdrew due to injury and the other seven “due to various illnesses”, according to a statement from the LPGA Tour. The statement went on to say: “Medical professionals on site have treated several athletes for symptoms related to a viral infection. The LPGA and tournament organizers continue to monitor the situation closely, and are working together to advice and assist the LPGA athletes with precautions to try to keep everyone healthy.”
— LPGA (@LPGA) May 17, 2024
LPGA Tour: Defending champion Rose Zhang ill
After playing three holes in her opening round, the winner of the 2023 Mizuho Americas Open, Rose Zhang, had to withdraw on Thursday. The reason: severe intestinal problems. It is not clear from the LPGA Tour statement whether the six other golfers, who also had to end their tournament due to illness, are affected by the same infection. In addition to the American Zhang, Caroline Masson, Maja Stark, Minami Katsu, Jiwon Jeon, Haeran Ryu and Paula Creamer are also ill.
Two players benefit from the withdrawals
As Germany’s Caroline Masson and Sweden’s Maja Stark had already withdrawn before the first round, Mao Saigo and So Mi Lee slipped into the field at the Mizuho Americas Open. Both are back in the top 10 of the leaderboard after strong performances. At seven under par, the South Korean So Mi Lee is the sole runner-up and the Japanese Mao Saigo is tied third at six under par. Thailand’s Atthaya Thitikul is in the lead at the tournament near the Statue of Liberty on nine under par. World number one Nelly Korda is in T3.
Say it with me: Nelly! Nelly! Nelly! 📣 📣@NellyKorda finishes T3 at -6 for Round 2 💪
— LPGA (@LPGA) May 18, 2024
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