It’s disappointing news for Tiger Woods fans everywhere, as the 15-time Major winner, has withdrawn from this year’s Masters tournament due to a reaggravation of his plantar fasciitis foot injury. Woods, who expressed disappointment in having to withdraw, thanked the fans and The Masters for their support. The Masters released a statement confirming Woods’ withdrawal after he completed seven holes of his third round.
A video of Woods limping noticeably at Augusta in cold and wet weather went viral on social media, highlighting his struggles with his injured right leg and foot. Woods had 11 holes left to complete in his third round, followed by another 18 holes in the final round, putting him at the prospect of playing 29 holes on Sunday. He was in last position at nine-over-par when he withdrew.
Woods had a challenging start to his third round, with two bogeys and consecutive double bogeys on the 15th and 16th holes, dropping him to six-over for his first seven holes and +9 for the tournament. Earlier in the day, Woods had equaled the record for most consecutive cuts made at The Masters, with 23 in a row dating back to 1997, showcasing his impressive history at Augusta.
This marks Woods’ second withdrawal from a Major in the last 12 months, as he had previously pulled out of the PGA Championship at Southern Hills in May due to similar circumstances. He had battled bravely to make the cut but ultimately withdrew after a nine-over-par 79 in the third round. As a result, Woods missed the US Open in June before returning to the 150th Open at St Andrews in July, where he missed the cut and had an emotional moment crossing the Swilcan Bridge, potentially for the last time in his playing career.
