Close confident Darren Clarke declared Tiger Woods’ health to be more important than any golf tournament after the 14-time Major winner shocked the golf world in withdrawing from next week’s Masters.
Woods advised Augusta National officials he has undergone surgery for a pinched nerve.
“After attempting to get ready for the Masters, and failing to make the necessary progress, I decided, in consultation with my doctors, to have this procedure done,” Woods said in a statement.
Darren Clarke sympathizes with Tiger Woods who will miss next week’s Masters through injury.
“I’d like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters,” Tiger added. “It’s a week that’s very special to me. It also looks like I’ll be forced to miss several upcoming tournaments to focus on my rehabilitation and getting healthy.
“I’d also like to thank the fans for their support and concern. It’s very kind and greatly appreciated. This is frustrating, but it’s something my doctors advised me to do for my immediate and long-term health.
“I’d also like to thank the fans for their support and concern. It’s very kind and greatly appreciated.”
It will be the first time since 1995 when he was an amateur Woods will miss the Masters.
However Woods has been suffering from back spasms in recent months as evident in having to withdraw from last month’s Honda Classic along with struggling over of the final round of the following week’s WGC – Cadillac Championship.
Then last fortnight Woods withdrew from the defence of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
News of Woods withdrawal certainly was the major talking point yesterday (TUES) on the practice range at this week’s Shell Houston Open in Texas.
“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.”
