Tiger Woods pulls out of 2016 Masters Tournament due to bad back

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By BNO NEWS

Former World No. 1 golfer Tiger Woods has decided to withdraw from this year’s Masters Tournament in Georgia, citing the ongoing problems with his back that have plagued the star for years.

“I’ve been hitting balls and training daily, but I’m not physically ready,” Woods said in a statement. “I’ve said all along that this time I need to be cautious and do what’s best for my long-term health and career. Unfortunately, playing Augusta next week wouldn’t be the right decision.”

Woods said he had consulted with his medical team and came to the conclusion that it would be “prudent” to miss the Masters this year. “I’m absolutely making progress, and I’m really happy with how far I’ve come, but I still have no timetable to return to competitive golf,” he added.

Although Woods will not be participating he said he is looking forward to attend the Champions Dinner.

“I’d like to thank the fans for their concern and support. The last few years have been difficult, but I have the best fans anywhere, and I want them to know that,” he said.

The 80th edition of the Masters Tournament, which is one of the four major championships in professional golf, is taking place at the Augusta National Golf Club in the U.S. state of Georgia between April 7 and April 10.

Tiger Woods is one of the most successful golfers of all time, spending a record 281 weeks in the World Number One position, most recently from March 2013 through May 2014. He has won the annual Masters Tournament 4 times, won the U.S. Open and The Open Championship 3 times each.

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