Sports

Woods doubtful for Masters

Back problem troubling legendary golfer.

Afp March 19, 2014

The 38-year-old American has been struggling for weeks with back spasms and pain and said Tuesday he will not defend his title at this week’s $6.2 million Arnold Palmer tournament. PHOTO: REUTERS/FILE

ORLANDO: Tiger Woods could miss next month’s Masters after pulling out of the PGA Tour Arnold Palmer Invitational because of recurring back problems.

The 38-year-old American has been struggling for weeks with back spasms and pain and said Tuesday he will not defend his title at this week’s $6.2 million Arnold Palmer tournament.

“It’s too early to know about the Masters and I will continue to be evaluated and work closely with my doctors,” Woods said on his website. “Unfortunately, my back spasms and the pain haven’t subsided.”

The Masters runs from April 10 to 13. Woods, a 14-time major champion chasing the all-time record of 18 won by Jack Nicklaus, has not won a major since the 2008 US Open.

But his injury woes are mounting and he withdrew during the final round of the Honda Classic three weeks ago because of the back problem and has made just four starts this season. AFP

Published in The Express Tribune, March 20^th, 2014.

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