Tiger Woods To Sit Out Masters After Back Surgery
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Tiger Woods says he'll miss this year's Masters tournament at Augusta National after undergoing surgery for a pinched nerve in his back.
"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," Woods said in a statement on his website.
Woods made the announcement on Twitter shortly before noon Tuesday. The microdiscectomy was performed Monday by Dr. Charles Rich in Utah.
The 38-year-old has been dealing with the back issue all season. He withdrew from the Arnold Palmer Invitational last month.
Woods has never missed the Masters, which runs this year from April 10-13. Of his 14 major titles, four have come at Augusta.
He hasn't won a green jacket since 2005.
"I'd like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters," Woods said. "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 could begin putting in about three weeks, according to the statement on his website. He's chasing Jack Nicklaus' all-time record of 18 major championships.
"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 and Jack reached their milestones over an entire career. I plan to have a lot of years left in mine."
You May Also Be Interested In These Stories
