Hideki Matsuyama. (Kyodo)

       DETROIT (Kyodo) -- Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama was forced to withdraw from the ongoing Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit, Michigan, before the second round Friday after testing positive for coronavirus.

       "It's disappointing to receive this news and have to withdraw from the Rocket Mortgage Classic," the Japanese golfer said in a statement.

       "I will take all the necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of all others," he said. "I look forward to a full recovery and returning to competition as soon as possible."

       The world No. 18 was grouped with Phil Mickelson and Rickie Fowler in the first round at Detroit Golf Club, where he shot 2-under 70. According to the PGA Tour, Mickelson and Fowler are playing as a twosome on Friday afternoon.

       Matsuyama will have its "full support throughout his self-isolation under CDC guidelines," the Tour stated.

       The 29-year-old, who became the first male golfer from Japan to win a major championship with a victory in the Masters in April, has qualified for the July 23-Aug. 8 Tokyo Olympics through world ranking points.

       The British Open, the only men's major played outside of the United States, is slated for July 15-18, and the Olympic golf competition gets under way July 29.

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