Michael Jordan To Miss Presidents Cup Due to NBA Lockout

The casualties of the NBA Lockout are far reaching. Michael Jordan announced today that he will not be able to participate in the Presidents Cup due to the current labor situation in the NBA.

Jordan was chosen by Fred Couples to by the captain’s assistant for the US Golf team. But MJ said today that he will not be able to travel to Australia next month for the Presidents Cup due to his obligations as the majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats.

Jordan said in a statement:

“After careful consideration, it is with regret that I have decided to cancel my trip to Australia later this month for The Presidents Cup. With the NBA labor situation unsettled, as the majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats, I feel it is necessary that I remain in the country. It was an honor to have been chosen by Fred Couples to serve as a captain’s assistant. I wish Fred and the United States team the best of luck.”

The Washington Post reports that Michael Jordan and Jay Haas were appointed assistant captain by Fred Couples. John Cook, an 11-time PGA Tour winner, will now take Jordan’s position.

Fred Couples said:

“I would like to thank Michael for his significant contributions, both as a captain’s assistant and his role as ambassador for the Presidents Cup… While the team will miss his friendship, spirit and leadership, we certainly understand the complexity of his current team obligations.”

Jordan was an honorary captain in 2009 when the US Team won the Presidents Cup in San Francisco.

Will the US Team be able to win the Presidents Cup without Michael Jordan?