Golf Channel broadcast team shifts at LPGA opener after Tom Abbott tests positive for COVID-19
Golf Channel’s Tom Abbott has tested positive for COVID-19 and will not be part of the Diamond Resort Tournament of Champions broadcast. Abbott went through the LPGA’s testing procedures on Sunday, the same day his symptoms began.
“I’ve spent most of this week in bed,” Abbott texted. “Usual symptoms, but thankfully no breathing issues.”
Karen Stupples has moved into Abbott’s hole-announcer position and Tripp Isenhour replaced Stupples as the on-course reporter, joining Jerry Foltz. Paige Mackenzie and Grant Boone are in the booth.
Abbott, who is at home recovering in Orlando, said he dealt with a headache and backache early on, but fatigue is the worst of it now.
“Everyone has been very supportive,” Abbott said, noting that LPGA commissioner Mike Whan even sent a text message to check in on him.
Boone tested positive for COVID-19 shortly after arriving in Georgia for October’s Drive On Championship. He said he experienced five days of bad symptoms, spent 10 days in a hotel, drove 1,000 miles back home and spiked a fever that reached as high as 106 degrees.
He still hasn’t regained a sense of taste or smell.
At this week’s Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions, LPGA players and guests are grouped together this week but otherwise separated. LPGA player dining and locker rooms are at the Four Seasons while the celebrities stick to the clubhouse. Fans are limited to invitation-only.
The event’s live concerts have moved outside to a newly constructed stage, but LPGA players aren’t allowed to attend those for safety reasons. No restaurants or Disney visits either for players during tournament week.
