The RBC Canadian Open is in doubt after the mayor of Toronto announced on Tuesday that all public events will be cancelled until 30 June because of the coronavirus pandemic.
With many golf competitions across the globe already suffering either postponement or cancellation, the PGA Tour event could also soon be under the cosh due to the pandemic.
In a statement, mayor John Tory said his administration recognises the importance of large gatherings and special events but insists the health and safety of the public remain top priority – hence the almost complete lockdown to stop the spread of the virus in the city as much as possible.
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‘The City’s decision provides clear direction to event organizers to enable them to make sound decisions in support of public health efforts and to follow Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health’s recommendations of physical distancing as a way to minimize COVID-19 transmission in the community when reviewing their event plans for the upcoming months and make prudent decisions about cancelations,’ Tory said.
The flagship golf competition was set to get under way on 11 June at the St George’s Golf and Country Club but could now be forced into cancellation due to the new measures.
Last month’s PLAYERS Championship had to be cancelled after its opening round due to public safety concerns, while the Masters, which was set to start at Augusta National next week, had to be postponed.
