Saying he is “just not ready,” golf superstar Tiger Woods announced Monday morning that he will not play in this week’s Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines Golf Club.
Woods had committed last week to play in the Genesis, where he serves as tournament host. His decision to play came just days after Woods announced his mother, Kultida, had died.
“I planned to tee it up this week, but I’m just not ready,” he said in a statement posted to his social media accounts. “I did my best to prepare, knowing it’s what my mom would have wanted, but I’m still processing her loss.
“Thanks to everyone who has reached out. I hope to be at Torrey later in the week and appreciate the kindness since my mom’s passing.”
Woods, 49, underwent back surgery in September and has not appeared in a PGA Tour event since. Woods played in last year’s Genesis, held at Riviera Country Club, but withdrew in the second round because of the flu.
Torrey Pines is hosting the Genesis this week after the tournament was moved from Pacific Palisades due to last month’s devastating wildfire. The first round is Thursday.