New York (AFP)

American Brooks Koepka, winner of four Grand Slams, joined North Irishman Graeme McDowell, former US Open winner, on the package list for the Travelers Golf Championship on Wednesday, his caddy having also tested positive for the Covid-19.

Koepka, number 4 in the world, announced its withdrawal from Golfweek. Just as McDowell did a few hours earlier, before the kick-off on Thursday of what must be the 3rd tournament counting for the North American professional circuit (PGA), disputed behind closed doors since the resumption of the recorded season two weeks ago.

And like the North Irishman, Koepka made this decision after his caddy Ricky Elliott tested positive on Wednesday morning, a diagnosis invalidating a negative test carried out 48 hours earlier on his arrival in Connecticut.

"I'm going to retire to protect everyone. I think it's the right thing to do," said the American, who underwent additional screening as a precaution after doing a session training with McDowell on Tuesday.

"I don't want to risk anyone's life, if people have breathing problems or that kind of thing. The only way to keep the circuit going is for the guys to do these things and be proactive, "he said.

- Field tested positive -

The day before, McDowell, winner in February of Saudi International on the European Tour, had announced his package, adding that he planned to be tested too, Wednesday morning, then return to Florida in a private plane.

"To protect other players, and for my physical and mental well-being (...) I'm going to leave here, go home and decide if I should quarantine myself from my family," added the 40-year-old player, 51st in the world.

McDowell, tested negative for coronavirus on Monday, trained Tuesday for the Travelers, along with Brooks Koepka, therefore, but also his brother Chase Koepka and Shane Lowry.

Meanwhile, one player tested positive: the American Cameron Champ. He immediately quarantined himself to respect the health rules of the PGA circuit, like his compatriot Nick Watney last Friday, before the second round of the RBC Heritage in South Carolina.

"I feel very good physically and I am obviously surprised and disappointed to learn the result of this test," reacted the 79th player in the world. "Now the most important thing is to do what is necessary to protect others, including my loved ones."

In this very delicate context, the world N.6, the American Dustin Johnson, said he was very satisfied with the test program and "all the precautions that are taken" on the American circuit.

© 2020 AFP