2020 John Deere Classic canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic

The John Deere Classic is the latest sports victim claimed by the coronavirus pandemic.

On Thursday, ESPN's Bob Harig confirmed that the PGA event scheduled for July 9-12 at TPC Deere Run in Illinois has been canceled due to the uncontrolled virus outbreak. Harig added the PGA Tour is trying to replace that tournament only for 2020.

The Tour is looking to return to action on June 11 with the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas. That even will take place without fans in attendance on courses. Decisions regarding if spectators can flock to future tournaments will be made down the road.

The four-player skins match featuring Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, Rickie Fowler and Matthew Wolff on May 17 drew impressive television ratings.

"The Match: Champions for Charity" golf outing at Medalist Golf Club in Florida headlined by Tiger Woods, Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Phil Mickelson last Sunday was the most-watched golf event in the history of cable TV.