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Report: PGA Tour to require non-vaccinated players pay for own COVID-19 tests

The PGA Tour is reportedly making some changes to its health and safety procedures based on players' vaccination status.

According to a memo obtained by the Associated Press, the PGA Tour is planning to drop COVID-19 testing requirements for any player who has been fully vaccinated. Those who have not been vaccinated will have to continue with the PGA Tour's testing requirements, and will need to obtain and pay for their own COVID-19 tests once the Tour's formal testing program ends.

The Tour's testing operation has been going since last June when it restarted its suspended season. Players were required to test negative upon arriving and wouldn't be allowed on the property until they did. They were also tested several times during a tournament. The Tour's formal testing program is reportedly ending at the end of June, but no date has been set.

If a player is unable to get vaccinated due to a medical condition, the PGA Tour will reportedly reimburse them for the cost of their tests.

The AP reported that face coverings and social distancing will still be required at all tournaments regardless of vaccine status. However, golfers who have been vaccinated will be able to gather in small groups without face coverings in accordance with CDC guidelines.

PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL - MARCH 02:  Tiger Woods hits his tee shot on the 12th hole during the second round of the Honda Classic at PGA National on March 2, 2012 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.  (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
Vaccinated golfers will no longer need to be tested before and during tournaments, but tests will still be required for unvaccinated golfers — and soon they'll have to pay for them. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) (Mike Ehrmann via Getty Images)

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