The shadow has lengthened over Tiger Woods return to competition after releasing a statement he will not contest next week’s Genesis Open or the following weeks Honda Classic.

“My doctors have advised me not to play the next two weeks, to continue my treatment and to let my back calm down,” Woods said in a statement on his website.

“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.”

Tiger Woods speaking at a press conference ahead of this week’s Dubai Desert Classic. (Photo – www.europeantour.com)

Woods withdrew after just one round of last week’s Dubai Desert Classic sighting back spasms and in just his second official competition event in some 17-months.

His Tiger Woods Foundation is playing host the Genesis Open starting next Thursday at Riviera in suburban Los Angeles and with Woods also tee-up for the first time in the event since 2006.

Woods still plans to attend the Genesis Open and said he will reassess his schedule after the Honda Open.

This further set-back to the 14-time Major winner will not help in Woods goal of being physical and mental fit for April’s Masters.