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Rory McIlroy says Olympic withdrawals aren't embarrassing for golf

Rory McIlroy does not believe the withdrawal of several high-profile male golfers from the Rio Olympics has embarrassed the sport.

McIlroy is among leading players, including world No. 1 Jason Day, Adam Scott, Louis Oosthuizen and Shane Lowry, who confirmed they will not take part when golf returns to the Olympic program for the first time in 112 years.

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McIlroy and Day are among those who've cited the Zika virus, which is linked to serious birth defects, as their reason for pulling out.