Date: April 09, 2015
Author: Mark Hayes

Leishman withdraws from Masters

Marc Leishman has withdrawn from the Masters, starting tonight, to stay beside his wife Audrey as she recovers from a life-threatening medical emergency.

Leishman notified Masters officials of his decision this morning.

Family has always been Leishman's priority, but his world was rattled early last week when Audrey was put into an induced coma in emergency care with pneumonia and a serious infection.

"It is with both deep regret and incredible relief I am withdrawing from the Masters tournament," Leishman said in a brief statement.

"My wife Audrey has survived a life-threatening medical emergency and I have decided to remain by her side with our children during this difficult time."

Leishman is taking care of sons Harvey, 3, and Ollie, 1, because it is believed his wife is still isolated from the family while the infections are treated.

"Thanks to an incredible team of doctors and nurses Audrey appears to be on the road to a full recovery and our two young children remain blessed to have the world's best mum in their lives.

"I want to pass along our thanks to all who supported us through this difficult period.

"We ask that you keep Audrey in your thoughts and prayers. My best to all of the competitors for a great 2015 Masters."

Audrey first thought she was being treated for a simple flu at their Virginia Beach base last week but was whisked to hospital when examined.

Her poignant facebook post gave an early indicator of the week-long drama to follow: "Who goes to urgent care suspected flu but ends up getting admitted to the hospital for a various amount of reasons? This girl. Cuddle your babies because I'm really going to be missing mine."

Leishman’s spot on the tee early tomorrow morning (AET), beside Welshman Ian Woosnam and American Erik Compton, will not be filled because there are no alternates at this invitation-only major.

The Victorian has played the Masters three previous times, including his tie for fourth in 2013 when he was paired with eventual winner and countryman Adam Scott in the final round.

He also led briefly in the second round last year before crashing out and missing the cut.