OLYMPICS: Adam Scott not going to Rio

Adam Scott will not be taking part in the Olympic Games in Rio.

The World No.7 has cited a hectic major championship schedule leading into the event as well as personal commitments as his reasons for making himself unavailable for selection.

Scott, who would have been an automatic selection along World No.1 Jason Day in the Australian team because of his standing in the top 15 of the world ranking, confirmed in a statement that he had discussed his decision with team captain Ian Baker-Finch.

Adam Scott says commitment to his majors schedule and personal matters are behind his decision not to compete at the Olympics. PHOTO: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images.

“My decision has been taken as a result of an extremely busy playing schedule around the time of the Olympics and other commitments, both personal and professional,” Scott said in a statement released through his management.

“I have informed the Australian Team captain and relevant authorities, who are understanding of my position and I wish the Australian Olympic Team the very best of luck in Rio.”

On the eve of the Australian Masters last year, Scott said the Olympics was not a priority he would only compete if it fit in with his tournament scheduling.

"I've been pretty open and outspoken that it's not really a priority of my scheduling next year which is based around the majors, and if the Olympics fits in then it does," he said. "The gap in the schedule there – some time off looks quite good actually."

Scott said golf and the Olympics had missed a huge opportunity to promote the game and criticised the 60-player, 72-hole stroke play events for men and women, adding he would have liked the Olympic organisers to have shown more creativity and considered a mixed team event.

It was hoped Scott would compete alongside World No.1 Jason Day but his spot is likely to go to Victorian Marc Leishman. PHOTO: Andrew Redington/Getty Images.

"I'm not really sure how just having another golf tournament is really going to enhance the game or grow the game any more than any other tournament just because it's the Olympics,” Scott said.

"With the field criteria it doesn't necessarily get the strongest field in the game either."

Scott’s official withdrawal means Day will now likely compete alongside World No.34 Marc Leishman.

Golf Australia chief executive Stephen Pitt said the early decision would enable another medal contender to take his place.

“We’re obviously disappointed Adam will not play because he’s one of the best players in the world, but we understand his position,” Pitt said on the Golf Australia website.

“This means one of our other elite players will get the chance and we’re more than happy that we will field a very strong team in Rio.

“We will have at least four great golfers compete for Australia in Brazil and we’re very excited for what that means to golf in this country and more broadly around the world.”