Darren Clarke's wife Heather is having hospital tests to determine the severity of recent internal problems. World No.12 Clarke has cancelled all professional plans to be with his wife and their two young boys Tyrone and Conor, six and four respectively.
The world No.12 discovered his wife could be seriously ill on his return after winning for the first time this season nine days ago in Japan. He immediately decided not to play again for the foreseeable future.
"Much as I am disappointed in having to withdraw from my obligations,I hope that everybody understands that it is vital I am with my wife and family at this time," said the 36-year-old, Surrey-based Ulsterman.
"Heather has been having problems and we are determined to get to the bottom of them as quickly as possible. It is a difficult time for all of us and I would ask that our privacy is respected".
Clarke has withdrawn from this week's Nelson Mandela tournament in South Africa and the following week's Nedbank Challenge at Sun City. He is not expected to play again until at least next year.
Written by Martin Hardy on behalf of ISM Ltd