Ryder Cup star Tommy Fleetwood has spoken of his relief after his family were able to return to England from Dubai amid the Middle East conflict.
Fleetwood, who hit an opening 69 at the Players Championship in Florida, has been competing in the United States while his wife and children sought to leave their home of the last four years in the United Arab Emirates.
Dubai has been targeted by Iranian drone attacks, which are in retaliation to American and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Fleetwood admitted fears over his family's safety had been a distraction in recent weeks and told The Guardian: "It is difficult not being able to travel. That has obviously been difficult. But when you know they're fine, that's kind of a relief.
"I think Clare [Fleetwood's wife] is very relieved now. She feels good and everything. It's just not a great time for so many people in the country. It's just unsettling for everyone, really. It's easy for me to say it's been on my mind but at the same time I'm not the one who was there.
"They had one flight that was cancelled or suspended. And then they got lucky getting out because they got out on the flight and then I think something happened at the airport while they were in the air or something. So they got lucky timing-wise.
"All I can say is that my family felt very safe and think the nation and the leaders have done an amazing job of making everybody feel safe and well and protected. I know my family have been safe and that's the important thing. But you would wish for different."
A decision is expected on Friday to relocate the Finalissima football match between Argentina and Spain.
The match on 27 March between the champions of South America and Europe was due to be played in Qatar but is expected to be moved amid the Middle East conflict.
