Unforeseen Withdrawals Plague The Mizuho Americas Open: LPGA Responds to Health Concerns

The Mizuho Americas Open, which was set to take place in California, saw a rash of withdrawals from 10 players over the past two days. Seven of these players were suffering from various illnesses, including defending champion Rose Zhang, who had to drop out after just three holes due to an intestinal issue. This trend continued throughout the tournament, with two players near the top of the leaderboard entering as alternates following the withdrawals of Maja Stark and Caroline Masson due to illness.

In response to these health concerns, the LPGA and tournament organizers have been closely monitoring the situation and working together to advise and assist the athletes in taking precautions to stay healthy. Several players, including Ruoning Yin of China, Paula Creamer, Lindsey Weaver-Wright, Jiwon Jeon, Haeran Ryu, A Lim Kim, and Minami Katsu have withdrawn from the event due to injuries or illnesses.

Despite these setbacks, the LPGA is committed to ensuring that its athletes are able to compete at their best while also prioritizing their health and well-being. As a result of these withdrawals, So Mi Lee of South Korea and Mao Saigo of Japan took their spots on the leaderboard. Lee is currently in second place behind halfway leader Atthaya Thitikul of Thailand by two shots. Saigo is three shots back but still very much in contention for the title. The LPGA will have a week off before heading to Lancaster, Pennsylvania for its next event – the U.S Women’s Open.