Jason Day loses 8 family members in Philippines typhoon
PGA Tour

Jason Day loses 8 family members in Philippines typhoon

FOLLOW: iHEART | TUNEIN


Jason Day will represent Australia at Royal Melbourne in next week's ISPS Handa World Cup of Golf, but do so with a hurting heart, as the Aussie learned eight of his family members were killed in Typhoon Haiyan.

Day's grandmother, an uncle and six cousins are among the thousands of casualties from the massive storm, the most powerful ever recorded to have made landfall. Day's aunt, mother to the six cousins lost as well the uncle who did not survive, was swept away with water and debris into another village but managed to live.

Late Sunday, Day released a statement through the PGA Tour.

"I am deeply saddened to confirm that multiple members of my family lost their lives as the victims of Typhoon Haiyan," Day said. "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.

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

While the world No. 20 is aware of what's happened to his family, Day has not heard from his mother, Dening, who moved to Australia from the Philippines some 30 years ago.

"My daughter has been ­updating him, but I don't want to bother him because he has commitments,'' she said, according to The Australian.

"There will be plenty of time to talk after (the World Cup). He's representing his country, so I don't want him worrying about anything apart from golf.''

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