Tiger Woods Withdraws from PGA Championship Due to Back Injury

Tiger Woods announced Saturday evening that he will withdraw from next week's PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club, citing recurring back issues that have plagued the 15-time major champion throughout his career. The withdrawal marks another setback in Woods' attempts to return to competitive golf at the highest level.

The 50-year-old golf legend had been scheduled to make his third start of the 2026 season at the year's second major championship. Woods' representatives confirmed that he experienced increased discomfort during practice rounds this week at his home course in South Florida, prompting the difficult decision to skip the tournament.

This withdrawal continues a frustrating pattern for Woods, who has struggled with consistency and health issues since his return from the car accident that nearly ended his career in 2021. Despite showing flashes of his former brilliance, including a memorable tie for 12th at last year's Masters Tournament, Woods has been unable to maintain the physical demands of regular competition.

Dr. Richard Watkins, Woods' longtime physician, released a statement indicating that the back spasms experienced this week were similar to those that forced his withdrawal from the 2023 Genesis Invitational. The medical team is recommending a period of rest and rehabilitation before Woods attempts to return to tournament play.

The absence of Woods from major championships continues to impact television ratings and fan interest, with the PGA Championship typically seeing significant viewership declines when the sport's biggest star is not competing. Tournament officials expressed disappointment but understanding regarding the decision.

Woods' next scheduled appearance is tentatively set for the Memorial Tournament in early June, though that timeline may be adjusted based on his recovery progress. The golf world remains hopeful that one of the game's greatest champions can find a way to compete pain-free and add to his legendary career accomplishments.

In the meantime, attention turns to defending champion Scottie Scheffler and rising star Viktor Hovland as the favorites heading into next week's major championship at Oak Hill.