Jason Day still plans to take part in this week’s World Cup of Golf despite learning that he lost eight relatives in the Philippines typhoon disaster.
The 27-year-old has been informed that his grandmother, uncle and six cousins were amongst the thousands killed when Typhoon Haiyan struck the country last week.
Day released a statement saying: “I am deeply saddened to confirm that multiple members of my family lost their lives as the victims of Typhoon Haiyan.
“My family and I are thankful for all who have reached out with their prayers and concern. We feel devastated for all who have been affected by this horrific tragedy.
“I will have no further public comments at this time. Please pray for all who have suffered loss.”
Day’s mother, Dening, who is of Philippines descent, migrated to Australia some 30 years ago.
She admitted it had been extremely difficult being so far away from the tragedy, but remained confident that her son would be able to remain focused on his golfing commitments.
“You can’t do anything, you can’t help, you can’t even talk to them to find out what’s going on,” she said.
But he’s a very strong boy, mentally he’s very strong. Hopefully he can focus on what he is doing.”
Day will partner Masters champion Adam Scott at the World Cup which gets underway at Royal Melbourne Golf Club on Thursday.
Playing on home soil, the Queenslanders are unsurprisingly hot favourites to win the four-day competition with the in-form Scott having won on his last two stroke-play outings.
