Woods pulls out of Masters after surgery
Tiger Woods will miss the US Masters for the first time in his career after undergoing a procedure on a pinched nerve in his back.
The world number one pulled out of the Honda Classic earlier this season with back spasms and was unable to defend his Arnold Palmer Invitational title last month due to ongoing problems.
In a statement on his official website, four-time Masters champion Woods said: “After attempting to get ready for the Masters, and failing to make the necessary progress, I decided, in consultation with my doctors, to have this procedure done.
“I’d like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters. It’s a week that’s very special to me. It also looks like I’ll be forced to miss several upcoming tournaments to focus on my rehabilitation and getting healthy.
“I’d also like to thank the fans for their support and concern. It’s very kind and greatly appreciated. This is frustrating, but it’s something my doctors advised me to do for my immediate and long-term health.”
Woods revealed that the surgery was performed on Monday in Park City, Utah, by neurosurgeon Charles Rich.
The website statement said the 38-year-old, who has not won a major since the 2008 US Open, would begin intensive rehabilitation and soft-tissue treatment within a week and could start chipping and putting in three weeks.
“It’s tough right now, but I’m absolutely optimistic about the future,” Woods said. “There are a couple [of] records by two outstanding individuals and players that I hope one day to break.
“As I’ve said many times, Sam [Snead] and Jack [Nicklaus] reached their milestones over an entire career. I plan to have a lot of years left in mine.”
Woods has won 79 PGA Tour titles compared to Snead’s 82. He has 14 major titles and Nicklaus 18.
