Thomas: Positive test not Watney's fault, Hilton Head 'an absolute zoo'

Justin Thomas doesn't believe it's a coincidence that Nick Watney became the first PGA Tour player to test positive for COVID-19 while playing in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

"No offense to Hilton Head, but they're seeming to not take it very seriously. It's an absolute zoo around here," Thomas said. "There's people everywhere. The beaches are absolutely packed. Every restaurant, from what I've seen when I've been driving by, is absolutely crowded."

Watney traveled privately to Hilton Head and initially tested negative upon arrival. He practiced and played the opening round of the RBC Heritage before experiencing symptoms consistent with the coronavirus. A positive test Friday forced him to withdraw from the event.

"Unfortunately, that's not on Nick because I know he's very cautious and has done everything he can, but I would say a lot of people in this area of Hilton Head just aren't," Thomas added.

As part of the PGA Tour's health and safety plan, 11 players and caddies who were in close contact with Watney were also tested Friday. None of the results came back positive.

Despite Watney's confirmed case of COVID-19, Thomas remains confident in the PGA Tour's ability to prevent an outbreak.

"I feel very safe. I wouldn't be playing if I didn't," he said. "The Tour has done all the protocols they can."