Golf legend Tiger Woods introduced on Monday that he could be withdrawing from this week’s Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, citing the emotional toll of his mom’s surprising dying. Woods, who was scheduled to make his first look in a non-major PGA Tour occasion in seven months, revealed that he was nonetheless processing the lack of his mom, Kultida Woods, who handed away final Tuesday on the age of 80.
(FILES) US golfer Tiger Woods reacts(AFP)
In a press release posted on social media, Woods shared his struggles with the choice: “I planned to tee it up this week, but I’m just not ready,” he mentioned. “I did my best to prepare, knowing it’s what my mom would have wanted, but I’m still processing her loss.”
Woods went on to precise his appreciation for the assist he has obtained on this troublesome time. “Thanks to everyone who has reached out. I hope to be at Torrey later in the week and appreciate the continued kindness since my Mom’s passing,” he added.
The 15-time main champion had dedicated to competing within the Genesis Invitational, a event he hosts, simply days after saying his mom’s dying. The occasion was set to be Woods’ first look on the PGA Tour since his withdrawal from the Genesis final yr as a result of sickness. His final official event was the 2023 Open Championship at Royal Troon.
Woods, who has had a storied profession at Torrey Pines, had hoped to return to the course the place he has received eight occasions, together with his iconic 2008 U.S. Open victory, which he clinched in a dramatic 18-hole playoff whereas enjoying with a damaged leg.
The Genesis Invitational needed to be relocated from its traditional venue at Riviera Nation Membership as a result of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, with the occasion now being held at Torrey Pines. Regardless of his withdrawal, Woods expressed hope to attend the occasion later within the week.
Woods’ withdrawal comes as a light shock, as he had not performed on the PGA Tour for the reason that 2023 British Open. He had made his plans to return to the Genesis, one of many signature occasions of the PGA Tour, after receiving a particular exemption. Jake Knapp has since changed Woods within the event discipline.
All through his profession, Woods has credited his mom as one among his biggest influences, describing her as a “force of nature” and the “greatest rock any child could possibly have.” He recalled her function in shaping his aggressive drive and love for the sport, mentioning her recommendation on sporting purple on Sundays, which turned his trademark. Her dying marks one other important loss for the golfer, whose father, Earl Woods, handed away in 2006 after battling most cancers.