Jason Days Loses Eight Relatives in Typhoon


PGA Tour regular Jason Day lost eight relatives during Typhoon Haiyan, which hit the Philippines with devastating force earlier in November. The popular player, who was born in Queensland, Australia, now lives in Ohio.

Day's mother, Denning, moved from the Philippines to Australia over 30 years ago. She had family in the city of Tacloban, capital of the ravaged Leyte province. He reportedly lost his grandmother, his uncle and six cousins during the typhoon, which so far has claimed nearly 4,000 lives, according to authorities.

"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.

"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."

Nearly 1,600 people remain unaccounted for in the Philippines, which suffered widespread damage from the category 5 storm, the second-deadliest typhoon ever to strike the island nation.

"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," Day added.

"I will have no further public comments at this time. Please pray for all who have suffered loss. Thank you."

Day is slated to play with fellow Aussie Adam Scott in the World Cup of Golf, which starts Thursday at Royal Melbourne Golf Club. Scott, the 2013 Masters champion and No. 2-ranked player in the world, is coming off victories in last week's Australian Masters at Royal Melbourne and the Australian PGA the week before.

Scott and Day, a one-time PGA Tour winner and currently ranked 18th in the world, are the favorites heading into the World Cup of Golf. The two practiced at Royal Melbourne on Monday, and the 26-year-old Day is scheduled to hold a press conference with Scott on Wednesday.