The PGA Tour's Players Championship at Sawgrass was cancelled after the first round on Thursday owing to the coronavirus.
While organisers had planned to play the last three rounds without spectators, a decision was later taken to abandon the tournament, as well as the next three weeks of PGA events.
"We did everything possible to create a safe environment for our players in order to continue the event throughout the weekend, and we were endeavouring to give our fans a much-needed respite from the current climate," the PGA said in a statement.
"But at this point - and as the situation continues to rapidly change - the right thing to do for our players and our fans is to pause."
Japan's Hideki Matsuyama was the first round leader after a superb nine-under 63, which put him two shots in front of a three-way tie for second.
Graeme McDowell carded a four-under 68, while Rory McIlroy carded an even 72 in opening the defence of his title. Shane Lowry shot a +1 73.
In women's golf, the ANA Inspiration, the first major of the year, is among five tournaments to be cancelled.
Before the announcement of the cancellation, McIlroy had warned that the Tour should call off competition if a player or caddie tested positive.
"My mother's got respiratory issues and I certainly don't want to get something and pass it on to her and all of a sudden there's some sort of complication," McIlroy told reporters after rallying late for an even-par 72 at TPC Sawgrass.
"It's in its infancy here in the United States, and it's going to get worse before it gets better.
"It's scary time, and I think that the PGA Tour have made a step in the right direction and I think we just have to play it by ear and take it day by day."
