Henrik Stenson plans to play Rio Olympics despite Zika

Henrik Stenson has no plans to join the plethora of golf stars who have withdrawn from the Rio Olympics after providing an unusual response when questioned about his take on the Zika virus.

The likes of world number one Jason Day and Rory McIlroy are among those to have pulled out of the Games, citing concerns over the mosquito-borne virus, which has been linked to severe birth defects.

However, Stenson has taken the opposite view to many of his fellow competitors, saying he has few fears.

"I'm not afraid of mosquitoes. I'm more afraid of bears," the Swede said ahead of the Scottish Open this weekend.

"It might be the only time when it's a competitive advantage to be 40-plus and done with the bambino (children) thing.

"I've got three kids at home and I'm not looking to have any more. The Zika virus is not a concern of mine."

Stenson's commitment follows that of Spaniard Sergio Garcia, who posted on Twitter: "I know there r some dangers but representing Spain, trying to make golf grow and becoming an Olympian r too important so I'll be at @Olympics."