The Dubai Ladies Masters 2016 tournament turned to tragedy on Wednesday when a caddie suddenly collapsed and died during the first round of the tournament.
“Everyone at the Ladies European Tour is extremely shocked and saddened today by this sudden death,” Ladies European Tour CEO Ivan Khodabakhsh said in a statement after Maximilian Zechmann, 56, was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, according to The Washington Post.
Zechmann was caddying for France’s Anne-Lise Caudel when he collapsed suddenly at the 13th hole of the Majlis Course at the Emirates Golf Club. Medics arrived at the scene immediately to treat Zechmann before rushing him to Rashid Hospital, the Post noted.
A cause of death wasn't immediately released, but it was thought to be a heart attack, according to The Daily Mail.
At the time of the incident, no single player had reached the 11th hole before play was suspended, Bleacher Report noted.
Khodabakhsh said the tournament would be suspended until Thursday “as a mark of respect,” the Post noted
“On behalf of our membership, we offer heartfelt condolences to Mr. Zechmann’s family and loved ones,” Khodabakhsh said.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of this caddie,” Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in Dubai, said, according to Bleacher Report. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”
Ian Poulter was among many golfers who offered their condolences, The Associated Press noted.
“Very said to see the passing of another caddie,” Poulter tweeted. “Done many rounds with Big Max. #RIP thoughts go out to his family and friends.”
Carly Booth, who was playing in the same group as Caudal when Zechmann collapsed, referred to the caddy’s death as “horrendous,” the AP noted.
“Thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Max,” she wrote on Twitter.
The 2016 Omega Dubai Ladies Masters will now be reduced from 72 to 54 holes, and is set to resume Thursday at 8:15 a.m. local time, Bleacher Report noted.
The tournament will have a moment of silence to pay tribute to Zechmann.
Others offered their condolences via Twitter.
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