The 22-year-old golfer confirmed that he will not be competing in the event due to concerns over the Zika virus and security.

The world number three is expected to defend his John Deere Classic title instead with both tournaments being played over the same weekend.

Spieth’s withdrawal means that the two-time Masters champion, Bubba Watson of the USA, will be the highest ranked player at the Summer Games.

The current world number two and newly crowned US Open champion, Zach Johnson, will also not be making an appearance in Rio.

Meanwhile, Jaco van Zyl and the 23-year-old Brandon Stone have been confirmed as South Africa’s representatives at the event.

Stone is currently in Scotland for the 145th Open Championship and the South African Open champion said it’s a big deal for him to play in golf’s most iconic tournament for the first time.

The players will be teeing it up at Royal Troon on Thursday morning for the opening round of the 145th edition of the Open.

Morgan Piek/OFM News