Golfer Rory McIlroy has withdrawn from the Rio Olympics over concerns about the Zika virus.

McIlroy said despite the low risk of infection it's a chance he isn't willing to take.

He added that his health and family's health comes before anything else.

Speaking to BBC Northern Ireland after winning the Irish Open in May, Mc Ilroy expressed concerns about the Zika Virus:

Rory McIlroy at the Northern Ireland game last night

The Olympic Council of Ireland say they're extremely disappointed with Rory McIlroy's decision. They say they have total confidence that the games will be safe for all athletes.

Here's McIlroy's statement in full:

After much thought and deliberation, I have decided to withdraw my name from consideration for this summer's Olympic Games in Rio de Janiero.

After speaking with those closest to me, I've come to realize that my health and my family's health comes before anything else. Even though the risk of infection from the Zika virus is considered low, it is a risk nonetheless and a risk I am unwilling to take.

I trust the Irish people will understand my decision. The unwavering support I receive every time I compete in a golf tournament at home or abroad means the world to me.

I will continue to endeavor to make my fans and fans of golf proud with my play on the course and my actions off it.

Siobhan Grehan director of nursing of the Tropical Medical Bureau says there are risks for people planning to start a family:

These people in Dublin have mixed views on his decision:

In June 2014 McIlroy caused controversy when he confirmed that he would be representing Ireland at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.

This is the first year golf will be played at the Olympics since 1904.