Willett commits to Olympics

Danny Willett has confirmed he’ll take part in the Olympic Games despite concerns over the Zika Virus and a number of high-profile withdrawals, including Rory McIlroy

Willett commits to Olympics

Danny Willett has confirmed he’ll take part in the Olympic Games despite concerns over the Zika Virus and a number of high-profile withdrawals, including Rory McIlroy.

The Masters Champion also revealed he’s spoken to Justin Rose, who also intends to represent Team GB.

“A lot of people are putting other excuses in there. The only reason you wouldn’t go would be because of concerns about Zika,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to Nicola (his wife) about it a lot, and we have concerns, but I’m still down for it and I still want to play. The threat is lowering every week. It’s come down by half in the last two months.”

Asked whether he thought Zika was an easy way out, he said:

“I think that’s a bit harsh. Some might, but I wouldn’t have though many would use that an excuse. I’m sure people who have pulled out haven’t done it willy nilly because they just don’t want to go.

“A lot of guys from Team GB have said they wouldn’t be going if they were concerned, and they are going. You don’t hear of many other athletes who have pulled out.

Related: Danny Willett's iron play secrets

“I’ve spoken to Rosey, and Fooch, his caddie, and they are still down to play, which is great for British golf. Hopefully we can have a third British guy come in if some of the contenders can play well over the next couple of weeks.”

However, Willett did concede that the prestige of a potential Gold Medal pales into insignificance when compared to the Major Championships.

When asked how long it would take for Gold Medal to be seen in the same light as a Major, he simply replied: “Never.”

“The Olympics is fantastic and it’s what all athletes around the world strive for, but we’ve just not been in it enough. I think if golf had been a part of it for the last 114 years, it might be a different story, but it’s not. I just don’t think it has the same feel or vibe as a Major. I don’t think it’ll ever quite compare. It’s a fantastic achievement, but the field strengths just don’t compare.”