Walker Cup players in health scare on eve of Seminole clash

Players set to take part in this weekend’s Walker Cup in Florida have been hit by “gastrointestinal issues” ahead of the biennial clash.

The flag on the first hole flutters in the breeze during a practice round at the 2021 Walker Cup at Seminole Golf Club in Juno Beach, Florida. Picture: Chris Keane/USGA.

The news was revealed in a joint-statement by the USGA and R&A on the eve of the 48th edition at Seminole Golf Club, where Forfar’s Stuart Wilson is the Great Britain & Ireland captain.

The statement read: “Over the past 24 hours, a number of players from both the GB&I and USA teams have been treated for gastrointestinal issues and are currently under observation by medical professionals at the teams’ hotel.

“All players from both teams have tested negative in their daily screenings and Covid-19 has been ruled out as the cause.

“The players have adhered to the strict health and safety guidelines established as a code of conduct for the match.

“The health and safety of the players and all involved in the match is our utmost priority and we are closely monitoring the situation.

“At this time, there is no expectation of a disruption to the timing of the matches of the biennial competition.”

Irishman John Murphy, a former winner of the St Andrews Links Trophy, revealed during a press conference yesterday that he’d felt “unwell” earlier in the week.

Nathaniel Crosby, Bing’s son, is Wilson’s opposite number for the match, which is being held at the ultra-private Seminole for the first time.

Nairn’s Sandy Scott, the world No 8, had been picked for Wilson’s 10-man team, but he was forced to withdraw due to a wrist injury.

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