As the golf world focussed on whether or not Rory McIlroy would tee-up in the defence of his Players Championship we learned champion New Zealander golfer Ryan Fox had withdrawn from the $5m tournament.

We did learn American David Ford was first reserve only because he would take McIlroy’s place should McIlroy elect not to tee-up at TPC Sawgrass.

However, no sooner had the tournament got underway and there was the sight of double major-winning Collin Morikawa grabbing his lower back after playing a practice shot on the 11^th tee, and the second hole of his round.

Wishing you speedy recovery https://t.co/d0lNacx5RY

— Fatiha (@TOURMISS) March 12, 2026

As Morikawa had commenced his round it meant there could be no replacement though we got no word on Fox.

Well, no word until checking Fox’s Instagram account and the sight of the proud New Zealander laid-up in a hospital bed, and quickly realising the seriousness of this absence from Tour HQ.

“Not exactly the week I had planned here @theplayers “, said the double Tour winning Fox.

“Unfortunately, some kidney stones took me down on Tuesday night and then had to be dealt with surgically this afternoon. Devastated to miss out on such an amazing event, hoping to have a quick recovery and be back at it soon. #foxtracker“

Wow!

Just hope one of the nicest golfers in the game was in not too much discomfort and he enjoys a good recovery.