Natalie Gulbis withdraws because of malaria

(AP) PHOENIX - Natalie Gulbis has withdrawn from the LPGA Founders Cup because of malaria contracted during the tour’s Asian swing.

The LPGA Tour and the International Management Group said Wednesday that Gulbis is being treated at home in Las Vegas and is expected to be at full strength in three weeks.

Two weeks ago in Singapore, Gulbis pulled out of the HSBC Women’s Champions before the second round because the illness that was later confirmed to be malaria. She opened the season with a 63rd-place finish in the LPGA Thailand.

The Founders Cup opens Wednesday at Wildfire Golf Club.