• European Tour

Donald withdraws from world championship in Shanghai

ESPN staff
October 29, 2011
Luke Donald is putting family first © Getty Images
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World No. 1 Luke Donald has pulled out of next week's HSBC Champions event in Shanghai so that he can attend the birth of his second child.

The Englishman is aiming to become the first player in history to top the money lists on both sides of the Atlantic and had hoped to be able to compete at the $7 million event in China. However, with his wife Diane now not expecting to go into labour this week, Donald has decided to withdraw from the tournament.

"It's important for my wife and it's important for me to make sure that I'm around to support her," he said. "It's no coincidence that the birth of our first daughter inspired me to some really great golf.

"Family does put a lot of things into perspective. My job is very important but the family out-trumps everything."

The 33-year-old clinched the PGA money list by winning the US PGA's season-ending event, the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Classic, on Sunday. Five weeks remain on the European Tour schedule, with Donald currently heading the Race to Dubai by over €1.3 million (£1.1 million) from Rory McIlroy.

American Ben Crane, playing in Malaysia this week, will take Donald's place among the 78-strong field in Shanghai.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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