Fifteen-time major champion Tiger Woods was eagerly anticipated to make his return to professional golf at this week’s Genesis Invitational, marking his first official event since last year’s Open Championship held in July. However, he has officially confirmed that he will not be participating in the tournament he hosts. This decision follows the recent passing of his mother, Kultida Woods, a loss that has deeply affected him and which he has articulated through emotional messages on social media.
Woods had announced his regret about missing the tournament just days after informing the public of his mother’s death. In a statement, he shared his intentions to play, revealing, “I planned to tee it up this week, but I’m just not ready.” This statement sheds light on the profound impact that grief can have on a person, showcasing Woods’ struggle as he tries to cope with his mother’s passing while wanting to honor her support by participating in this high-profile event.
Woods expressed his gratitude towards his supporters, saying, “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.” This highlights his desire to remain engaged with the golfing community and his fans during this heart-wrenching time, emphasizing the importance of companionship and support through meaningful connections.
His most recent official appearance in a tournament was at The Open Championship in Royal Troon last July, where he unfortunately did not progress past the cut, marking the third consecutive major where he faced similar struggles. After undergoing surgery on his lower back last September, Woods has made limited competitive appearances, one being an outing with his son Charlie at the PNC Championship just before Christmas. He has also participated in the TGL tournament, an indoor golf league he co-founded, reflecting his ongoing passion for the sport, even amidst personal challenges.
With Woods stepping aside from the Genesis Invitational, his place in the tournament at Torrey Pines will be filled by fellow American golfer Jake Knapp, who achieved his first PGA Tour victory at the Mexico Open last year. The Genesis Invitational has also undergone course changes this year; it has been relocated from its usual Riviera Country Club venue to San Diego due to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. This year’s event is designated as the third Signature Event of the PGA Tour, characterized by limited participant fields and substantial prize money, meaning that it draws some of the elite talent in professional golf.
Woods’ most recent non-major tournament experience was at the Genesis Invitational in 2024, where he had to withdraw during the second round due to illness. Since his serious car accident in February 2021, he has only played 11 competitive events, finding it difficult to make the weekend at three out of the four major championships in the previous year.
The field for this week’s tournament at Torrey Pines is notably strong, featuring 46 of the top 50-ranked players in the world, including current world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, renowned golfer Rory McIlroy, and the defending champion Hideki Matsuyama. Their presence highlights the high stakes and excitement surrounding the event, creating an atmosphere filled with anticipation and competition. As fans prepare for the tournament, the absence of Woods will be keenly felt; however, they understand his need to focus on his health and emotional recovery during this challenging chapter in his life.
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