Buhai was the only player selected to represent South Africa.

She cited the growing number of Covid-19 cases in Tokyo and the Olympic village as her reason for not traveling to Japan.

“There is no higher honour than representing your country, as I did in Rio in 2016 but I have made the most difficult decision of my career so far and withdrawn from the 2020 Olympic Games.

“We have multiple tournaments in the weeks after the Olympics, including a Major and I do not want to jeopardize my chances of participating in these tournaments.

“While I know the IGF and IOC are doing everything in their power to keep the athletes safe, unfortunately due to the rise of Covid cases in Tokyo and the Olympic Village, I no longer feel comfortable travelling to Tokyo.

“I wish the IGF and all contestants a successful tournament.

“Also, best of luck to Team South Africa, Garrick Higgo and Christiaan Bezuidenhout, as you fly the flag for our country in your Olympic debut.”

Meanwhile, the men's tournament at the Kasumigaseki County Club in Saitama teed off on Thursday, with Garrick Higgo and Christiaan Bezuidenhout as the country’s representatives.

The South African-born Englishman, Justin Rose, is the defending champion.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport