Citing malaria, Gulbis withdraws from Founders Cup

• By Randall Mell
• Mar 13, 2013 9:28 AM ET

Natalie Gulbis withdrew from the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup in Phoenix Tuesday night with her management team confirming that she contracted malaria while on the tour’s Asian swing.

Gulbis first became ill playing the HSBC Women’s Champions in Singapore two weeks ago. She withdrew after the first round with her team reporting she was being medically treated for flu-like symptoms, but had not been diagnosed with malaria.

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“Natalie originally became ill in Singapore and she was treated and medically cleared to fly home,” according to a statement released jointly by the LPGA and IMG, Gulbis’ management company. “Natalie continues to be treated at home and is expected to be at full strength in three weeks. Natalie’s well-being is a top priority for both the LPGA and IMG, and steps continue to be taken to ensure the well-being of Natalie and all the players on the LPGA Tour now and for future events. LPGA doctors have been consulted and believe she is on appropriate medications, under great care, and her prognosis is excellent.”

According to the Center for Disease Control, malaria is a “serious and sometimes fatal disease,” if not treated properly. It’s caused by a parasite that infects a certain kind of mosquito that feeds on human beings. The CDC reports that about 1,500 cases of malaria are diagnosed in the United States each year with the vast majority among travelers and immigrants returning from parts of the world where malaria transmission occurs, including South Asia.

The LPGA reports that tournament founding partner Scottsdale Healthcare will be on-site in Phoenix Wednesday to provide a blood draw for players, caddies and family members wishing to be screened.