Tiger Withdraws From Next Two PGA Tour Events

Following his missed cut at Torrey Pines and subsequent withdrawal during the Dubai Desert Classic, Tiger Woods has confirmed that he won't be playing in the Genesis Open or Honda Classic, which he had been due to compete in. The 14-time major champion has cited back spasms as the reason for his latest setback. 

In a statement published on his official website, the 41-year-old said: "My doctors have advised me not to play the next two weeks, to continue my treatment and to let my back calm down. This is not what I was hoping for or expecting. I am extremely disappointed to miss the Genesis Open, a tournament that benefits my foundation, and The Honda Classic, my hometown event. I would like to thank Genesis for their support, and I know we will have an outstanding week."

He is still expected to attend the event in Los Angeles in an ambassadorial role, but this news raises even more questions about his future in the game, particularly with the Masters a matter of weeks away.

Having returned at the Hero World Challenge last December, Woods looked happy, and showed flashes of brilliance, recording more birdies than anyone else in the limited field. Since then, however, the former world number has looked laboured and lost on the course. Technical, mental, physical. His problems are considerable, and may never be recorded from at any meaningful level. For fans of Tiger, and simply those who love the game of golf, it's been a sad chapter in a carerr that helped to redefine the game.