Hoey out with mystery virus

A MYSTERY virus has forced Michael Hoey out of his defence of this week’s Estoril Open title in Portugal.

According to his manager, Conor Ridge, Hoey picked up a virus last year while competing on the Asian swing of the Tour.

The Belfast golfer has been forced to withdraw from a number of tournaments including his most recent events – the BMW Italian Open and BMW PGA Championship.

“Michael’s been advised by his doctor to take a fortnight’s rest so hopefully he will be fit enough to return later this month for the BMW International Open in Munich,” said Ridge.