Mel Reid withdraws from Evian, citing new travel restrictions to the U.K. that may dash Olympic dream

A new quarantine rule for those entering the U.K. from France went into effect on Monday.

England’s Mel Reid has withdrawn from the Amundi Evian Championship, citing new travel restrictions that could prevent her from competing in the Tokyo Olympics. She has been replaced in the field by Alena Sharp.

On Friday, the U.K. announced that those entering the U.K. from France will have quarantine for 10 days, even if fully vaccinated against COVID-19, amid concerns of the Beta variant. The new rule went into effect on Monday.

“Incredibly disappointed to withdraw from The Evian Championship this year due to the recently implemented travel rules that prevent re-entry into the U.K. from Franee in time for the team’s Olympic departure,” Reid wrote on Instagram. “I’ve worked relentlessly with my team and the LPGA to find a way to compete in both but unfortunately at this point there are no assurances on firm solutions and the risk of missing the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete as an Olympian is simply too high.

“I can’t wait to return to Evian in many years to come and want to thank the tournament team for their understanding.”

Reid tied for 12th at last week’s Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational with partner Carlota Ciganda.

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