Double U.S. Masters winning Bernhard Langer will be absent from Augusta National next fortnight for a first time since 1983.

Langer t miss Masters for first time since 1983

The German underwent surgery on his left thumb last Wednesday after injuring it in a biking mishap.

He issued a statement saying:  “I’m obviously disappointed the injury occurred, but especially disappointed with such an important part of my schedule coming up, including the Masters.

“I do, however, appreciate the fine care of Dr. (Andrew) Weiland and his team, and will

work hard to recover to allow me to resume play on the Champions Tour this summer.”

Langer made his debut at Augusta in 1982 and was fitted with a first green jacket three years later.

He missed the event in 1983 but has teed-up in the season’s first Major ever since including winning again in 1995.