Concerns over Day back pain

GOLF:

Ian Baker-Finch is more concerned by the frequency of Jason Day’s back injuries than the 32-year-old’s withdrawal from the Australian summer of golf.

On Saturday, Day pulled out of a scheduled homecoming tour – where he was to headline this week’s Australian Open in Sydney before playing for the International team in next week’s Presidents Cup in Melbourne.

The former world No.1 cited the latest in a series of back issues he has suffered this year.

In March, Day was forced to withdraw hurt after playing six holes of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

Weeks later, he received oncourse medical treatment on his back during the first round of the Masters at Augusta National, where he eventually tied fifth.

A concerned Baker-Finch urged Day (pictured) to focus on rehabilitating his back.

“I’m very disappointed that Jason isn’t coming back, it would have been great for fans to see him play two big events in two Australian cities,” Australian Olympic golf team captain Baker-Finch said.

“But I’m more concerned about his back, for a 32-yearold, than I am about him not returning to Australia.

“Playing through injury just to satisfy fans can only worsen his back and hurt his confidence if he’s playing poorly in front of home crowds.

It is understood the Queenslander was receiving medical treatment at his home in Ohio in the days leading up to announcing his withdrawal at the weekend.

Still, the 12-time PGA Tour winner was lambasted on social media with some questioning the legitimacy of his injuries.

evin Priest