Peter Dawson, Chief Executive of The R&A, has wished Tiger Woods all the best for his rehabilitation after the 14-time Major Champion announced that he will not be able to contest The 140th Open Championship.
The American, who has won The Open Championship on three occasions, is still suffering from knee and achilles problems which have not healed in time for him to take his place in the field for golf’s oldest Major.
Dawson said: “I know how disappointed Tiger is not to be able to play in The Open Championship this year. Naturally we are sorry that a player of his calibre isn’t able to join us at Royal St George’s, but we wish him well in his recovery and hope to see him back soon, competing in front of the fans who love to watch him play the game.”
In an earlier statement, Woods said: “Unfortunately, I’ve been advised that I should not play in The Open Championship. As I stated at the AT&T National, I am only going to come back when I’m 100 per cent ready. I do not want to risk further injury. That’s different for me, but I’m being smarter this time. I’m very disappointed, and want to express my regrets to the fans at The Open Championship.”
Woods will be replaced by his compatriot Jason Dufner, who made his Open Championship debut at St Andrews last year, before finishing in a tie for fifth in the US PGA Championship, held at Whistling Straits.
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