LPGA postponing tour event in Phoenix due to coronavirus concerns
Mar 12, 2020, 3:27 PM | Updated: 3:28 pm
(Photo by Ray Carlin/Icon SMI/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
(Photo by Ray Carlin/Icon SMI/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
The LPGA event scheduled for next week at Desert Ridge in Phoenix, along with two others, have been postponed due to the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), the LPGA announced Thursday.
The Volvik Founders Cup was set to be held from March 19-22. In addition to the Volvik Founders Cup, the Kia Classic in Carlsbad, California (March 26-29) and the ANA inspiration in Rancho Mirage, California (April 2-5) have also been postponed.
“This is a difficult situation and as we navigate these uncertain times, we appreciate the support of all those involved with the LPGA. I am fully committed to rescheduling these important events on our 2020 schedule, especially our first major, the ANA Inspiration,” LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan said in a press release.
“Our thoughts are with all of those around the world affected by this virus. And on a personal level, it pains me to see the impact of this health crisis on our athletes, our sponsors and our fans. That said, I know keeping our LPGA family safe, and all those who follow us safe, has to be my top priority.”
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Whan added that the LPGA will continue to monitor the situation with global health partners and are planning for different scenarios for future LPGA events should they be necessary.
It’s the latest event to be either canceled, postponed or adjusted due to the spread of coronavirus.
The PGA Tour also announced Thursday that it plans to proceed with all events as scheduled, but without spectators through the Valero Texas Open. In addition, the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship will be postponed, while the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass allowed fans for the First Round of play. The final three rounds will be restricted to fans.
Outside of the golfing world, the NCAA decided to cancel both men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, as well as any remaining winter and spring championship events. The NBA and NHL opted to suspend their seasons, while MLB canceled spring training and pushed back the regular season by at least two weeks.
