Fitzpatrick: Golf’s return smooth but first positive test could change things

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Matt Fitzpatrick says golf’s return at the Charles Schwab Challenge felt “very much normal”, although he does worry what will happen if someone tests positive for Covid-19.

The PGA Tour returned after a three-month absence at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, last week and Fitzpatrick was quick to commend the tour for making the experience a surprisingly smooth one, despite the new safety measures that were put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

These measures include social distancing; regular Covid-19 testing for players, caddies and support personnel; restricting movement of players during events; and holding tournaments without spectators.

“Apart from the test that you take at the start of the week and on a Saturday, it’s very much normal,” Fitzpatrick said.

“It’s just been great getting back to playing again. How easy they’ve made it so far after this first week, it’s fantastic.”

Fitzpatrick does worry, however, that things will become a lot more complicated if someone at an event returns a positive test for the coronavirus.

“I just think that when someone potentially tests positive then things become a little bit different,” he added.

“You’ve got to trace where he’s been, who he’s been in contact with and all that sort of stuff.

“Then I think it could become… it’s a bit of a gray area as to what’s going to happen and what will go on.”

According to PGA Tour regulations, if a player or caddie produces a positive result they will not be allowed to participate in the tournament, and will be offered an environment where they can self-isolate for up to 14 days.

Fitzpatrick will be back in action for this week’s RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Matt Fitzpatrick PGA Tour

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