South Africa's Branden Grace has become the latest player to withdraw from contention for the Rio Olympics due to concerns over the Zika virus.
The 28-year-old won his first PGA Tour title at the RBC Heritage in April but joins the likes of Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell in announcing his intention not to compete at the Games this summer.
The threat of the Zika virus has now been cited as the reason for withdrawal by a number of golfers, whose sport returns to the Olympics for the first time since 1904.
Grace, who also has seven European Tour wins to his name, said his intention to start a family was his main reason for stepping back.
"After serious consideration it is with regret that I have decided to withdraw myself from the Olympic competition due to the risk posed by the Zika virus," he said in a statement.
"Although it was a huge goal of mine to represent my country in the Olympics, I am getting married in November and (my partner and I) are hoping to start a family in the near future so I must put the health of my family first.
"I wish the SA team the best of luck in Rio and sincerely apologise to the South African fans as I really appreciate all of the support they give me each week. It would have been a huge honour to represent my country so I really hope to be able to qualify again in four years' time."
Northern Irishman McIlroy became the highest-profile player to confirm his absence from the Games when he made an announcement on Wednesday.
The world number three said: "After speaking with those closest to me, I've come to realise that my health and my family's health comes before anything else.
"Even though the risk of infection from the Zika virus is considered low, it is a risk nonetheless and a risk I am unwilling to take.
"I trust the Irish people will understand my decision. The unwavering support I receive every time I compete in a golf tournament at home or abroad means the world to me."
Fiji's Vijay Singh and Marc Leishman of Australia had earlier pulled out, with McDowell adding his name to the list on Thursday.
Source: PA
