Woods to miss US Open

bruced
May 29, 2014

Tiger Woods revealed in a statement that he will not be participating at this year’s US Open.

The former world number one underwent microdisectomy surgery to relieve pain from a pinched nerve in his lower back on March 31.

The surgery was a success and the rehabilitation time was expected to be fairly short, prompting widespread belief that Woods may be ready in time for the 114th US Open. Unfortunately for him and the fans, it was not to be.

“Unfortunately, I won’t be there because I’m not yet physically able to play competitive golf,” the 38-year-old said on his website.

“I’d like to convey my regrets to the USGA leadership, the volunteers and the fans that I won’t be at Pinehurst. The U.S. Open is very important to me, and I know it’s going to be a great week.

“Despite missing the first two majors, and several other important tournaments, I remain very optimistic about this year and my future.”

This will be the sixth major that Woods has missed due to injuries. Knee surgery in 2008 prevented him from competing in The Open Championship and the PGA Championship.

Then in 2011, knee and Achilles issues left him sidelined and he missed the US Open and The Open Championship.

The 14-time major winner has only competed in four events this year, with his best finish being a tied for 25th at the WGC Cadillac Championship.

While he fired a 66 in the third round at Doral to keep him in contention, it was clear he was playing with a lot of pain.

Woods has recently slipped down to third on the world rankings, with new number one Adam Scott taking over the mantle, while Sweden’s Henrik Stenson is in second place.