By Evin Priest
ANOTHERÂ one cites the dust. The dust being the Zika virus, and another one being a member of the top-five ranked golfers in the world.
US Open Dustin Johnson has officially withdrawn from the Olympics citing the Zika virus, meaning three of the top four players in the world will not compete in Rio in August. Rory McIlroy and Jason Day have also opted not to play.
World No.2 Johnson, fiancee to Paulina Gretzky and father to son Tatum, said: “This was not an easy decision for me, but my concerns about the Zika virus cannot be ignored.
“Paulina and I plan to have more children in the near future, and I feel it would be irresponsible to put myself, her or our family at risk.
“While I am sure some will be critical of my decision, my hope is that most will understand and support it.”
The  mosquito-borne virus has been linked to defects in newborn babies, prompting golfers with desires to grow or start families to avoid the risks.
Olympic chiefs and the World Health Organisation have issued guidance for athletes and visitors to Rio and say the risk of catching Zika is low.
Johnson’s compatriot Jordan Spieth – the world No.3 – has expressed his desire to attend the Rio games.
