First player tests positive for Covid-19 at European Tour event

The European Tour has taken the step in the Celtic Classic in Wales as a precaution. Picture: Getty Images

Frenchman Alex Levy has become the first European Tour player to test positive for Covid-19 following his withdrawal from the Celtic Classic.

The five-time European Tour winner had initially tested negative after making it known to officials at Celtic Manor that a friend he'd met in France over the weekend had tested positive.

However, after being re-tested, Levy returned a positive test, which means he must now self-isolate for 14 days.

His compatriot, former Scottish Open Stroke-Play champion Romain Wattel, was also withdraw from the latest event on the circuit's new UK Swing after he was identified as having come into contact with Levy.

Levy said: “I told the European Tour immediately after finding out that my friend tested positive.

"I informed them of my movements since arriving on site as I wanted to ensure the safety of my fellow professionals and their caddies.”

Levy, his caddie Tom Ayling and Wattel are now all in self-isolation and the European Tour and its medical team will support all three individuals throughout that period.

Wattel was replaced in the tournament by England’s Matthew Baldwin, while Denmark’s Martin Simonsen came in for Levy.

Last week, American John Catlin was thrown out of the English Championship at Hanbury Manor after breaching the tour's Covid protocols by visiting a local restaurant with his caddie.

Six events on a US Swing after being played in "bio-bubbles", with players, caddies and tournament staff staying in designated hotels and not being allowed to leave other than going to the course.

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