In a bizarre twist each time Tiger Woods has withdrawn injured from a Major Championship an Irish-born golfer has triumphed.
In the 68 Majors Woods has contested since turning professional in September 2006 he’s missed just four Majors.
The first occasion was in 2008 for the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale when Ireland’s Padraig Harrington overcame injury himself to win through for a second straight Open Championship.
A month, and with Woods still side-lined for the PGA Championship, Harrington made it two Majors in succession at Oakland Hills.
Padraig Harrington wins a second Major Championship and the first of four Tiger Woods was forced to miss through injury.
Then in 2011 Woods was again out injured when Rory McIlroy broke through to capture the US Open at Congressional in suburban Maryland.
And Woods was still recovering from leg surgery a month later when Darren Clarke lifted the Claret Jug at Royal St. George’s.
McIlroy and Clarke will be teeing-up at Augusta along with Graeme McDowell and with calls Padraig Harrington, who is no longer exempt, being afforded a special invitation that would extend an unbroken run of 14 straight Augusta appearances.
Clarke became close to Woods when the Northern Irishman’s first wife, Heather passed away in 2006, and with Woods offering very needed support.
And while Clarke will next week head to Augusta to celebrate his 500th European Tour event he expressed support for the injured American.
“It is very disappointing and I feel for him as Augusta is one of his favourite tournaments but his health is important than any golf tournament,” said Clarke.
“But I am sure with the right rehab and the right doctors and stuff he will be alright.
“You have to remember that Tiger is the sort of guy that who has played through a lot of pain before and he’s pulled then he obviously doesn’t think he can compete.”
