Bryson DeChambeau tests positive for Covid-19, won’t play in Olympics

Bryson DeChambeau, days before the start of the men’s Olympic golf tournament, has tested positive for Covid-19 and will not compete in the event. 

DeChambeau, according to a release from USA Golf on Saturday night, tested positive during the final testing protocol before he left the U.S. for Japan. He will be replaced on the U.S. team by Patrick Reed, who also played in the 2016 Games. 

“I am deeply disappointed not to be able to compete in the Olympics for Team USA,” DeChambeau said in the statement. “Representing my country means the world to me and it was a tremendous honor to make this team. I wish Team USA the best of luck next week in Tokyo. I will now focus on getting healthy, and I look forward to returning to competition once I am cleared to do so.” 

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Reed, who is playing the 3M Open in Blaine, Minn., this week, will now undergo three days of testing before flying to Tokyo, with the tournament set to begin on Thursday at Kasumigaseki Country Club. 

“I am so excited to have the opportunity to represent our country and be a part of Team USA in Tokyo,” Reed said in the statement. “I wish Bryson nothing but the best, and I know how disappointed he is to not be able to compete, and I will do my best to play my best and represent our country.” 

Reed will join Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa and Xander Schauffele from the U.S. in the 60-player men’s competition. Nelly Korda, Danielle Kang, Lexi Thompson and Jessica Korda are representing the United States in the women’s competition.  

“We’re obviously disappointed for Bryson, as we know how much he was looking forward to representing the United States in his first Olympics,” Andy Levinson, USA Golf Executive Director, said in the statement.

“But we’re thrilled that Patrick Reed is excited to play for his country when he is called upon, even with the strenuous testing protocols, and he is set to arrive just in time to compete — on a golf course he will have never seen prior to the start of competition. It really illustrates the importance of the Olympics and the value Patrick places on playing for Team USA and for his country. We’re excited to welcome him to Tokyo soon and know he’ll be a formidable competitor for Team USA.”