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Golden Oldie

The Open 2016: Henrik Stenson just revealed another brilliant reason why he’s not worried about Zika at Rio Games

FIRST it was bears, now it's his age.

Henrik Stenson has been nothing but candid when revealing why he's still going to next month's Rio Games.

 Henrik Stenson says being 40 will be to his advantage at Rio Games
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Henrik Stenson says being 40 will be to his advantage at Rio GamesCredit: EPA

That continued as he charged into second place at the Open thanks to a second round six-under 65.

And, asked whether he was concerned about Zika, the Swede said: "No. For once it's a competitive advantage to be 40 and not looking to have any more kids."

All of the game's top four players have withdrawn.

Jordan Spieth's sponsors Coca-Cola - the Games' longest-running partner - are even reportedly going to replace his photo on their products with the silhouette of a golfer.

 Henrik Stenson said he is more scared of bears than Zika-carrying mosquitoes
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Henrik Stenson said he is more scared of bears than Zika-carrying mosquitoesCredit: Reuters

But Stenson, who previously said he was more scared of bears than mosquitoes, has no intention of dropping out.

He said: "I've been excited to go and get a feel of the Olympic atmosphere for a long time. Of course I want to try and play well and do myself and my country proud by hopefully bringing home a medal.

"I think after a pretty long and successful career, it would be pretty cool to have an Olympic medal hanging next to some of the nice trophies I have at home. So I'm going to try my hardest.

 Henrik Stenson could have a gold medal to go with a Claret Jug
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Henrik Stenson could have a gold medal to go with a Claret JugCredit: EPA

"There's been a few guys not entered and that could potentially make it a little easier for the medal fights.

"But it's still a strong, strong field at the top and you've got to play some good golf if you want to walk home with one of those."

Stenson's best-of-the-day round puts him in prime position to land his first Major and he said: "I haven't been in contention for the last six majors and that was a big, big goal of mine to try and be up there and give myself a chance. So far, so good."

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