AVONDALE, La. – With wife Gerina set to give birth to their first child, Martin Piller figured he’d need to check his phone every few holes at the Zurich Classic.
He didn’t even make it that far.
Piller withdrew before the start of the first round Thursday.
Piller’s partner, Joel Dahmen, who only got into the field because of Piller’s status as the team’s A player, was allowed to remain in the event.
Piller was replaced in the field by Denny McCarthy. The new team of McCarthy-Dahmen will tee off at 2:36 p.m. ET.
The birth of a child is way more important than any golf tournament. Wishing the best to the Pillers. https://t.co/IWwhKwWLrS
— Joel Dahmen (@Joel_Dahmen) April 26, 2018
The format change at the Zurich should make things easier for the new teammates. The first round is now best ball, not alternate shot.
The only event that Gerina, a three-time U.S. Solheim Cupper, has played this season was the Diamond Resorts Invitational in January. The couple’s baby was due May 3, and she said that she plans to take off the entire year.
Source: Internet
