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Schwartzel's decision has been announced by team captain Gary
Player who said it weakened the country's chances of a medal in
Brazil.
"I am sad and disappointed that several top players have
withdrawn from the Olympic Games in Rio," Player said in a
statement.
"I was sorry to hear that Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel
have withdrawn their names from consideration.
"I would have given anything to play in the Olympics. South
Africa had a great team, but now obviously, it will not be as
good."
Former Open winner Oosthuizen, 33, pulled out last week citing
family commitments and a taxing schedule.
No reason was given for the withdrawal of Schwartzel, who has
worked his way back up to 20th in the world rankings.
Golf returns to the Olympics after a 112-year absence, but its
inclusion has been questioned by Australian swimming great Dawn
Fraser who criticized compatriot Adam Scott's decision to skip
the Rio Games.
Fiji's former world number one Vijay Singh has also opted out
of the event.
The Rio Olympics take place from Aug. 5 to Aug. 21, with the
men's golf tournament ending Aug. 14.
(Reporting by Mark Gleeson; Editing by Amlan Chakraborty)
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