Tiger Woods let it be known yesterday that he has withdrawn himself from consideration for this year’s Ryder Cup Team and will be taking an extended break from golf to concentrate on his health.
Stating on his website, “I've been told by my doctors and trainer that my back muscles need to be rehabilitated and healed. They've advised me not to play or practice now. I was fortunate that my recent back injury was not related to my surgery and was muscular only.”
While the announcement was somewhat unexpected it didn’t come as a complete shock. The 38-year has been struggling since returning to action in late June following back surgery in March.
Woods got off to a slow yet encouraging start but was forced to withdraw from the WGC-Bridgestone earlier this month citing back spasms. He returned to play the following week at Valhalla but failed to make the cut at the year’s final major.
Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson has been vocal about wanting Woods on his team for Gleneagles as long as he was fit and ready for the challenge.
Telling reporters before the PGA Championship last week, “Tiger would be a great addition to our team.” Adding, “As I've said all along, I would pick Tiger Woods if he's healthy and playing well.”
After hearing Woods’ decision yesterday Watson said, “I think we can all agree that we need Tiger Woods in this great sport, and he has taken the high road by informing me early on in the selection process. My focus will remain on identifying three players to join the US team and give us the best chance for success at Gleneagles.”
Woods will now take time off to rest and recover but states he plans on returning in early December at his World Challenge Tournament at Isleworth in Orlando, Florida.
