The history is repeating itself and not in the way we like. The LPGA Tour’s FM Championship which started on August 29, is right in action at the TPC Boston in Norton. However, ever since the tournament started it has been facing some major setbacks, and familiar ones as well.  Not one, but three golfers withdrew from the tournament citing illness. Do the WDs of this nature jog your memory?

The LPGA Media on X, recently posted a tweet informing the fans that LPGA superstar Sei Young Kim withdrew from the FM Championship during the second round. Before this Olivia Cowan and Jenny Shin had withdrawn from the tournament, due to illness. The consecutive withdrawals are the reason fans are getting Deja vu from the 2024 Mizuho Americas Open where a string of top golfers, including Rose Zhang, were forced to withdraw due to a mystery illness. Although Zhang later clarified that she withdrew because of back pain, it was not the case for other golfers.

Zhang’s withdrawal was joined by Ruoning Yin, Paula Creamer, Minami Katsu, Jiwon Jeon, Haeran Ryu, A Lim Kim, Maja Stark, and Caroline Masson. The sudden withdrawal of eight golfers from the 120-player field in just two rounds sparked widespread concern, and unfortunately, the same is happening at the FM Championship.

After the first round, Haeran Ryu is leading the pack by holding the first spot with a score of 8 under par. Hot on her heels is Yealimi Noh with a score of 7 under par and Robyn Choi, who is currently holding the T3 spot with a score of 6 under par.

Worried by the withdrawals at the Mizuho Americas Open, the LPGA Tour had to take some hefty precautionary measures to ensure the players were healthy and safe. Would something similar happen this time too?

What was the LPGA Tour’s move amid viral infection?

LPGA Tour in a statement confirmed that a mysterious viral infection had swept through the Mizuho Americas Open, forcing several top players to withdraw. Fans were notified of the worrying situation, revealing, “Medical professionals on site have treated several athletes for symptoms related to a viral infection.” 

The LPGA team jumped into action, worried about the players’ health. But despite their best efforts, the virus continued to spread, leaving a trail of disappointment and worry among the golfers. And then, to make matters worse, the weather unleashed extreme rain and wind that threatened the entire tournament. Do you think if the withdrawal trend continues because of illness, the golf community will witness yet another statement? It totally could, but let’s hope it does not happen.

The current weather at TPC Boston suggests that there is just a 10% chance of rain. Who will emerge victorious at the $3.8 million event as per you? Let us know in the comment section below!