One of golf’s biggest tournaments and their first major of the year just took a huge hit. Today, Tiger Woods announced that he will miss The Masters after undergoing back surgery this week to correct a pinched nerve. These back issues have been an ongoing problem for Woods since last year, and getting them corrected was the right thing to do. Unfortunately for us, it means that we will not see Woods at Augusta National.
Woods is currently chasing Jack Nicklaus for most majors in the history of golf, hasn’t been able to capture one since 2008 and currently sits on 14. That puts him five behind the Golden Bear, and with Tiger getting older and the injuries starting to mount, you have to wonder if he will be able to accomplish this goal he has been chasing his entire career.
Read Tiger’s full statement after the jump.
OS REWIND: ESPN Sunday Conversation With Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods announced Tuesday that he has undergone a successful microdiscectomy for a pinched nerve that has been hurting him for several months.
The surgery was performed Monday in Park City, Utah, by neurosurgeon Dr. Charles Rich.
The procedure was successful, but Woods will be unable to play in the Masters Tournament, instead requiring rest and rehabilitation for the next several weeks.
“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.
“I’d like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters,” Tiger added. “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.”
Sad to say I’m missing the Masters. Thanks to the fans for so many kind wishes. http://t.co/Ofbre9VHEL
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) April 1, 2014