Golf tragedy

Caddie dies at Dubai Ladies Masters after collapsing on the course with heart problem

Play suspended for the day after bag-carrier of Anne-Lise Caudal went down ill

A CADDIE has died at the Dubai Ladies Masters after collapsing on the course with a heart problem.

Play was suspended for the day after a man named as Max Zechmann, bag-carrier of Anne-Lise Caudal, went down ill on the 13th fairway.

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Anne-Lise Caudal and her caddie on the tenth hole before he fell ill and diedCredit: AP:Associated Press

Zechmann was treated by medics on the Majilis track at Emirates Golf Club and rushed by ambulance to Rashid hospital but could not be saved.

Players were reportedly "shocked and upset" and the event has been limited to 54 holes after competitors were called off the course.

Ladies European Tour CEO Ivan Khodabakhsh said: "Everyone at the Ladies European Tour is extremely shocked and saddened today by this sudden death and therefore, we have taken the decision to suspend first round play as a mark of respect.

Anne-Lise Caudal is consoled after her caddie collapsed on the courseCredit: Getty
Anne-Lise Caudal was comforted after her caddie was taken ill on the 13th holeCredit: Getty Images

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"On behalf of our membership, we offer heartfelt condolences to the individual's family and loved ones."

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Mohammed Juma Bu Amin, vice-chairman and CEO of organisers Golf in Dubai said: "We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of this caddie.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace."

Caudal, 32, from France, has two wins on the Ladies European Tour and turned pro ten years ago.

She is ranked 386th in the world and has made more than £500,000 in career earnings.

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The Dubai Ladies Masters is the final event of the Ladies European Tour season and this year features its strongest ever field which includes Paige Spiranac and fellow Instagram sensation Chelsea Pezzola.

 

A number of stars paid tribute to Zechmann, a much-loved character on Tour.

Scottish star Carly Booth wrote: "Tough start today for our group to experience something so horrific. Thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Max."

English star and former BMW PGA Championship winner Simon Khan said: "Sad day as another caddy passes in Dubai. Big Max, lovely fella always smiling RIP."

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First round play will resume tomorrow.

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