Tiger Woods Will Miss Masters, Out Indefinitely
Image via Zimbio
On Friday evening Tiger Woods confirmed what most had suspected, announcing via his website that he will not participate in Masters next week. Still recovering from two back surgeries last year, this will be the second time in the last three years that the four-time champion will miss the event.
“After assessing the present condition of my back, and consulting with my medical team, I’ve decided it’s prudent to miss this year’s Masters.
“I’ve been hitting balls and training daily, but I’m not physically ready. I’ve said all along that this time I need to be cautious and do what’s best for my long-term health and career. Unfortunately, playing Augusta next week wouldn’t be the right decision. I’m absolutely making progress, and I’m really happy with how far I’ve come, but I still have no timetable to return to competitive golf.
“I’d like to express my disappointment to Billy Payne, the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I won’t be competing. It’s a very important and special week to me, and it’s upsetting to miss it. I do plan to attend the Champions Dinner and see a lot of old friends.
“I’d like to thank the fans for their concern and support. The last few years have been difficult, but I have the best fans anywhere, and I want them to know that.”
In typical Woods fashion, the timing of the release was designed to receive the least amount of attention—after 8 p.m. on a Friday, which just so happened to be April Fools’ Day. Then again, given his ongoing struggles and decidedly unjokey persona, it would be a bit foolish not to take his statement at face value.
