Australian professional golfer Jason Day has recently revealed that he lost eight of his family members to devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan striking the Philippines.
Day’s mother moved from the Philippines to Australia nearly 30 years ago. However, many of her relatives stayed in the Philippines in the city of Tacloban. Day is reported to have lost his grandmother, his uncle and six cousins during the typhoon which has claimed thousands of lives and left over 600,000 people displaced from their homes.
Yahoo sports has described Day as “one of the nicest guys in all of professional golf.” Their description seems fitting as Day urges fans to focus their attention towards relief efforts in the Philippines.
“I am deeply saddened to confirm that multiple members of my family lost their lives as the victims of Typhoon Haiyan,” Day said in a statement released by the PGA Tour Monday.
“My family and I are thankful for all who have reached out with their prayers and concern.
“We feel devastated for all who have been affected by this horrific tragedy. While I understand the media’s interest in this matter and hope that any coverage can spread awareness to assist with the relief efforts that continue in the Philippines, I hope that all will respect my family’s privacy during this difficult time. I will have no further public comments at this time. Please pray for all who have suffered loss. Thank you.”
Gold Coast Bulletin was able to speak to Jason Day’s mother, Dening Day, about the tragedy that affected her family. She claims that she has not yet spoken to her son about their loss.
“My daughter has been updating him but I don’t want to bother him because he has commitments,” she said. “There will be plenty of time to talk after [the World Cup]. He’s representing his country so I don’t want him worrying about anything apart from golf.”
Day will team with Adam Scott in the World Cup beginning at Royal Melbourne on Thursday.
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